Where to Stay During a Home Renovation

Renovations have been a passion for my wife and I for years. Before we had kids, our side hustle was purchasing century homes and breathing new life into them. Sometimes it was just refreshing the paint, and full kitchen and bathrooms. Other times, we'd take it right down to the studs for an extreme makeover.

Our most ambitious project was a major home renovation to an 1880s built (that's an old house) property where we did essentially a semi-addition, while gutting the house to the studs. I should also mention that my wife was pregnant during the last half of that massive renovation. There was no way we could live through that level of chaos and dust.

We looked into short term rentals like Airbnb, corporate housing, serviced apartments, and an extended stay hotel but staying with family seemed like the best bet. Luckily, my mom opened her home to us - dog and all. Little did we know that her hospitality would extend far beyond our initial timeline when delays pushed the project over schedule.

What could have been a stressful situation turned into an unexpected blessing. Not only did we save funds, but my wife got to form a truly special bond with my mom during those months living together. I'm not being sarcastic here - they developed a heartwarming friendship that might never have blossomed under normal circumstances.

Our journey taught me that a home renovation project rarely goes as planned. But with flexibility, creativity, and yes, even the generosity of loved ones as the best solution, you can roll with the punches and come out ahead. As we'll explore, there are so many options out there - the key is finding the right fit for your needs and budget.

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Key considerations when choosing temporary accommodation

When my wife and I decided to renovate our 1880s home a few years back, one of the biggest headaches was figuring out how to find temporary housing. Like any homeowner, we wanted a comfortable temporary setup without breaking the bank. But man, the options can really make your head spin!

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New location, location, location!

If you're staying somewhere for weeks on end while your home is a construction zone, you don't want a crazy commute on top of it all. Ideally, you'll find a place relatively close to your job, kids' schools, favorite haunts - you know, all the stuff that keeps your normal routine intact. Small inconveniences become major pains real quick when you're already living out of a suitcase.

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Safety & Privacy

Depending on your temporary digs, you may have to share spaces like kitchens, living rooms, on site laundry facilities or even bathrooms with other guests. Not ideal when you're already dealing with household chaos. Reputable places will have clear privacy policies posted, so be sure to give those a good read. Safety-wise, look into security measures like keyed entries, cameras and neighborhood crime stats. You want to feel as secure and comfortable as you would at home.

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Financial consideration: Cost-effective Renting Options, Comparing the cost of various temporary housing options

Finding an affordable place to crash shouldn't sap your funds even more. Luckily, there are options to fit any budget. Corporate housing or extended-stay hotels can be reasonable if you negotiate a weekly or monthly rate. Renting an Airbnb, VRBO, or serviced apartments is another cost-effective route, especially if you're willing to snag a small studio instead of a whole house. If you've got generous friends nearby, maybe call in a favor and crash at their place? Just be sure to buy plenty of wine and don't overstay your welcome!

A little research goes a long way in choosing temporary housing that checks all the boxes: convenient, privacy, safety and $$$ that won't leave you eating ramen for months. With some creative thinking and flexibility, you can make renovation limbo actually feel like a fun adventure!

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Temporary Housing During a Home Major Renovation

Whether you're undertaking a complete home remodel, dealing with extensive repairs, or adding significant square footage to your property, the disruption to your daily life can be substantial. To ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience during this challenging time, it's crucial to explore various temporary housing options that cater to your specific needs, budget, and lifestyle preferences.

Extended Stay Hotels

These are a solid choice if you want that hotel living experience without the premium price tag. Extended stays are basically apartment-style suites with kitchenettes, living areas and plenty of room to spread out. Perfect for longer periods when you need your own space.

The best part? They're experts at cutting deals for extended bookings. I'm talkin' discounts of 30, 40, even 50% off the standard nightly rate if you commit to a month or more. Just don't get roped into something crummy - demand an updated suite with modern amenities.

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The Vacation Rental

Short term rentals like Airbnb, or VRBO are really testing hotels. These fully-equipped vacation rental single family homes or apartments can be an awesome short term rental apartment, especially for families or groups. You get more privacy and homey vibes compared to a cramped hotel room.

The key is finding a well-reviewed property from a reputable host. A vacation rental can be an amazing deal - just be sure to factor in extra costs like cleaning fees when you're doing a side by side comparison.

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Corporate Housing

This one's a bit of an insider secret. Corporate housing companies offer fully-furnished apartments, condos or homes specifically for longer-term stays. Executive rentals are designed for relocating employees or folks in transition - aka the perfect temporary renovation pad! The upside is corporate cribs come stocked with all the homey essentials like cookware, linens, TVs and even utilities included. The downside is that corporate housing is typically pricier than extended stays or vacation rentals.

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Friends or Family

If you've got generous relatives nearby, it may be tempting to decide to take them up on that offer. I get it - saving is always a win. But fair warning, bunking with loved ones for weeks on end can seriously test relationships!

There's the lack of privacy and personal space to consider. The "thanks for letting me stay" good night awkwardness. If you do go this route, be an awesome guest - cook meals, clean up after yourself and don't overstay your welcome. And maybe invest in some noise-canceling headphones!

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Summary Table of Temporary Housing Options

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Cost-Saving Strategies for Temporary Housing

Renovating your home can be an exciting but expensive endeavor, and the costs can quickly add up when you factor in temporary housing during the construction process. However, with a little creativity and flexibility, there are several ways to save money on your temporary living arrangements without sacrificing too much comfort.

Practical Tips and Advice

Of course, all this temporary living can put a serious dent in your home renovation budget if you're not careful. Here are some cost-cutting tips from someone who's been there:

First, be flexible on location and amenities. A basic extended-stay hotel without the fancy pool or room service can be surprisingly affordable, especially if you negotiate a monthly rate. Same goes for vacation rentals - a simple one-bedroom outside the city instead of that massive beach house can save you huge without hugely impacting your life.

Next, embrace your inner cheapskate and get thrifty! Stock up on discounted gift cards for restaurants, grocery stores and entertainment to stretch your dollars. Take advantage of free activities in your temporary neighborhood.

If you've got generous friends or family nearby, it may be tempting to take them up on crashing at their place. Just be sure to respect their space and hospitality - don't overstay your welcome! Bring a nice gift, cook meals, and maybe even slip them a few bucks for utilities if you're there long-term.

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Choosing Pet-Friendly Temporary Housing for Small Dog Owners

For all my fellow dog parents out there, finding pet-friendly digs is a whole other challenge. You think finding a place that allows furry friends is tough? Try adding "large dog" to the criteria. Suddenly, those extended stay hotels seem to only welcome Chihuahuas!

My advice? Don't just take their word for it when a place claims to be pet-friendly. Dig deeper - is there a weight limit or breed restrictions? You don't want any nasty surprises when you show up with Sparky in tow. And for the love of all that's holy, please be a responsible pet owner! Nothing ruins a good thing faster than an inconsiderate dog parent.

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Organizing Renovation Details to Reduce Disruption

Here's where a little upfront planning can really pay off. Before your contractors even start swinging hammers, get crystal clear on the reno schedule and what areas will be impacted. That way, you can strategically pack up and relocate just the essentials you'll need during construction.

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Should you be home during a renovation?

Some folks try to just tough it out and stay onsite through their renovation to save money on temporary housing. I get the appeal, but woo buddy, let me tell you - that is a brutal way to exist. Constant noise, dust everywhere, no kitchen or bathrooms for weeks on end? No thank you!

Unless we're talking about a very minor, low-impact project, my advice is to just bite the bullet and get out of there. Your sanity is worth it! Living in a construction zone is a surefire way to turn even a dream renovation into a nightmare. Don't be a hero, treat yourself to some peace while the work gets done.

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Where NOT to Stay During Home Renovation

Any sort of cheap, sketchy motel: Yeah, they may be budget-friendly, but you get what you pay for. We're talking paper-thin walls, questionable cleanliness, and a general sketchiness that'll have you sleeping with one eye open. Unless a Bates Motel vibe is your thing, it's not worth the risk.

The other place to avoid? A renovation of your own! Seriously, I know a guy who thought it was a genius idea to move his family into their half-renovated investment property during their home reno. Spoiler alert: it was a nightmare! Between the daily back-and-forth, living out of boxes, and unexpected delays, he ended up wasting so much time. Just don't do it, folks.

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Final thoughts on choosing the best temporary home option during a home renovation

Looking back, I realize how fortunate we were to have that familial fallback plan. If I could go back, I may have explored more flexible, month-to-month options just in case our timeline changed. You never know what curveballs renovations will throw your way!

At the end of the day, the "best" temporary housing is whatever reduces your stress levels. Maybe that's staying close to work, or prioritizing privacy over cost savings. For some, bunking with relatives is a dream - for others, it's their worst nightmare!

The key is being honest about your needs, budget and flexibility. Don't be afraid to get creative or change course if your first plan falls through. And for the love of all that is holy, build in a buffer for those inevitable delays! Renovations are hard enough without the added headache of temporary housing drama.

So whether you're crashing with in-laws, living in an extended-stay, or went all-out on a swanky corporate rental, just roll with it. Keep reminding yourself that it's temporary. Because soon, you'll be kicking back in your gorgeous new space without a mother-in-law curfew in sight! Now that's true bliss.

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FAQs : Home Renovation Tips

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Should you be home during renovation? 

Deciding whether to stay home during a renovation is a personal choice that depends on the project's scale. While it can save money and allow oversight, living amidst the chaos can be noisy, dusty, and disruptive. Consider your comfort level, safety concerns, and tolerance for constant communication from trades.

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How can I save during renovation? 

To keep costs down during a renovation, meticulous planning and budgeting are key. Tackle simpler tasks yourself, shop for materials during sales, and get multiple contractor quotes. Repurpose existing items where possible, and focus on essential upgrades to avoid overspending on unnecessary frills.

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What is the best room to renovate first? 

A - The best room to renovate first hinges on your priorities and lifestyle needs. Kitchens and bathrooms often yield the highest return on investment. Consider starting with high-traffic areas or separate rooms that significantly impact your daily routine, like the kitchen if you love to cook and entertain.

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Where do you start when renovating? 

When renovating, start by assessing your home's condition and creating a detailed plan. Determine your budget, prioritize projects, and hire pros for complex tasks. Begin with structural repairs and system upgrades before tackling cosmetic updates like new flooring or paint.

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What time of year do most people renovate their homes? 

Most homeowners opt to renovate in spring or summer when the weather allows for outdoor projects and proper ventilation. However, some choose winter for interior work due to contractor availability and potential cost savings during the off-peak season.

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What adds the most value in a renovation? 

Renovations that add the most value include kitchen and bathroom remodels, adding an outdoor living space like a deck or patio, enhancing curb appeal, and improving energy efficiency. Focus on projects that align with current market trends and appeal to potential buyers in your area.

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How much do you spend on renovation? 

Renovation costs vary widely based on the project scope, location, and material choices. On average, homeowners spend between $18,000 and $76,000 for a moderate whole-home renovation. Larger projects or high-end finishes can easily exceed $150,000.

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How do you stick to a renovation budget? 

To stick to your renovation budget, start with a detailed plan that accounts for unexpected expenses. Get multiple quotes, prioritize must-have upgrades, and avoid change orders once work begins. Regularly review expenses and adjust your budget as needed to stay on track.

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What are some tips for managing a renovation project? 

Effective renovation project management requires careful planning and organization from the start. Set realistic budgets and timelines, maintain clear communication with contractors, and closely track expenses and progress. Be prepared to make prompt decisions to prevent costly delays.

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How can I make my renovation more sustainable? 

For an eco-friendly renovation, consider sustainable materials like bamboo flooring, recycled glass countertops, and low-VOC paints. Install energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and proper insulation. Reduce waste by donating or recycling materials from demolition.

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About the Author:

As a passionate home renovator, I've had the privilege of bringing multiple century homes up to snuff alongside my wife. Before we started our family, we poured our hearts into restoring these timeless treasures, each with its own unique history and character.

Through countless hours of hands-on work and countless lessons learned, we developed a deep appreciation for the challenges and rewards of the renovation process. From navigating unexpected surprises behind the walls to sourcing period-appropriate materials, each project was a labor of love that taught us the importance of patience, flexibility, and creative problem-solving.

It was during one of these renovations that Bidmii first took root. As we struggled to find reliable contractors and stay on budget, we realized there had to be a better way. We envisioned a platform that would simplify the renovation process, connect homeowners with trusted professionals, and provide the tools and resources needed for a successful project.

Today, Bidmii is the culmination of our years of experience in the world of home renovation. By combining cutting-edge technology with a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by homeowners, we've created a platform that is transforming the way people approach their renovation projects.

Through my work with Bidmii and my own personal renovation experiences, I've developed a wealth of knowledge and insights that I'm passionate about sharing with others. Whether you're tackling a century home restoration or a modern remodel, I believe that with the right tools, team, and mindset, anyone can achieve the home of their dreams.

So if you're embarking on your own renovation journey, know that you're not alone. With the tips and advice in this article and the support of the Bidmii community, you've got everything you need to navigate the world of temporary housing and come out the other side with a beautifully renovated home.

Let's get started!

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