Most of us will agree moving is stressful.
Researchers in psychology have even listed moving as one of the most stressful life events in every study of its kind for the past 40 years.
Unfortunately, moving and relocating occur more frequently than ever and is a way of life for many corporate executives.
Often a move will involve some type of temporary housing situation before settling into a home.
Although there are numerous options for short-term housing or extended stays, making the right choice is the difference between adding and relieving stress during the move.
I will never forget the 2 weeks I spent in an extended stay hotel.
Sadly, it was not one of those options that reduced the stress, nor was it a memory I wish to retain.
I was in the process of finding another place to live after suddenly having to move from my home of 11 years.
I thought an extended stay suite would be a great idea during the interim.
So, after a bit of research on the internet, I found what looked like the perfect choice.
I say "looked like" because the photos I saw online did; indeed, look like I would be staying in a nice, homey place.
It was complete with kitchen essentials, large bathroom, living area, and room service.
Imagine my surprise upon arrival, my car loaded to the ceiling and my little dog in tow, to find my suite did not look anything like the picture.
Kind of like when you buy those frozen dinners...
they never look like the picture.
At that point I was too tired to do anything other than take the key and crash on the bed.
I reasoned with myself that it was only for a few weeks and probably wouldn't be so bad.
It probably would not have been so bad if not for the smell of cigarette smoke, the filthy floors, the questionable guests coming and going at all hours, noise from outside, and a multitude of other intolerances.
It may have been like home for someone, but not for me.
After 2 weeks went by, I could tell I was slipping into depression.
When a friend offered to let me stay at her house while she and her husband vacationed in Hawaii, I thought I had won the lottery.
Needless to say I took her up on the offer.
Even though it was a hassle to pack all my belongings again to make another move, it was well worth the effort.
To say my stress level went down considerably is an understatement.
Since that time, I've learned the stress of relocation or a temporary move can be enormous.
I've also learned there is a big difference in the types of temporary housing available and the companies that offer corporate housing solutions.
The best way to alleviate the stress involved in a short-term move or an extended stay is to consult with professionals in the temporary housing industry.
Temporary and corporate housing can be highly customized to individual needs.
When you have someone on your side with knowledge and experience in the industry, it can make all the difference in the world.
The best temporary housing companies will listen to what you want and work on your behalf to get it for you.
When looking for a corporate housing consultant or company, it pays to take the time to find out what their level of experience is, ask for referrals, and feel comfortable with the consultant.
Choosing a company that focuses on what you want should be one of the major considerations.
Companies that specialize in corporate housing, relocations, furnished apartments or short-term housing can relieve most, if not all, of the stress involved in moving by handling all the details for you.
In the long run, hiring a corporate housing consultant will save your sanity and allow you to focus on more important things.