Extended Stay America?

napalmer927 · Jan 4, 2014

I've been traveling a couple years. The first assignment, I took the company's housing (Amer Mobile) and they had no problem getting me pet-friendly housing. After that, I either stayed with friends or found housing on Craigslist that was pet-friendly. I did have one bad experience with a Craigslist apartment in Atlanta, but luckily I had a friend nearby with an extra bedroom.

I recently came out West, and stayed at a Bed and Breakfast in Las Cruces, NM. It was a little more expensive than CL, but it was actually the same price as the Extended Stay in town, and much much nicer accommodations. I am about to start an assignment in Denver, and I have been in contact with several Bed and Breakfasts already. In Las Cruces I paid $790/month, and in Denver I have gotten one quote so far for $900/month, much less than my housing subsidy of $450/week.

Basically, don't restrict yourself to a cramped and impersonal Extended Stay Hotel. Call the local Chamber of Commerce or look on TripAdvisor. If you don't mind the risk and most likely dealing with roommates, check out Craigslist for sublets and temporary housing. Good luck to you!

caliotter3 · Jan 5, 2014

I spent some time in an extended stay hotel and turned down the weekly maid service for privacy. Lo and behold belongings turned up missing. The maintenance man was entering my room and stealing from me. For this lack of privacy and security, I would opt for private housing. Better for your peace of mind.

MotivatedOne · Jan 5, 2014

I'm currently finishing up my first assignment in Denver, CO. I tried looking for housing on CL but I'm not a roommate type of person so I had no luck considering most posts were for rooms for rent. I stayed in an ESA for about 2 months before moving out. I love to bake but couldn't because there was no oven. If you can find a Towneplace Suites for equal or slightly more than ESA, I'd opt to stay there instead. The rooms are updated and they have a small stove and oven. Also, see if they offer a discount to employees of whichever facility you'll be working at. I was able to get my room for $60/night. You have to pay tax on the room for the first 30 days but after 30 days you're no longer considered a "guest" but a "resident" so your taxes are refunded/credited back to you. The pet fee was $100 or $25/night for the first four nights. When looking at apartments, they wanted me to pay anywhere from $350-$500 for the pet fee/deposit for 3 months! That's a bit ridiculous. Best of luck finding a place and congratulations on landing your first assignment!