The factors involved
How to Get Started
Find a well-established local company
— When searching for temporary housing, you'll get better service and lower rates when dealing locally. Look for companies that answer the phone when you call and promptly reply to emails.
Decide where you’d like to live
— Consider drive time and traffic for your daily commute. Do you like a garden style community, or do you prefer a mid or high-rise, with elevator access? Decide what’s important to you – apartment access, view, rate, square footage, location, or style.
Set a budget
— Corporate apartment rates vary according to area, length of lease term, apartment size, and scale of property. One bedroom / bathroom corporate apartment rates in the Atlanta suburbs typically start at $2,500 per month. Consider what is most important to you (budget, location, apartment size, floor level, view, MARTA access, moderate or upscale) and express that to your corporate housing provider.
Sales tax may apply
— If your stay is less than 91 days, sales tax will be added to the amount of your rent. The amount varies by county, but is typically 7 – 8% in the Atlanta area.
Expect applications and a background screen
— Corporate housing providers follow a similar screening process as apartment communities. Expect a credit check and a criminal background screen as part of the approval process. If you have credit or other issues, ask about specific criteria and requirements.
Ask for pictures
— It’s always a good to have an idea of what to expect regarding your apartment furnishings. Ask for pictures of furnishings, look at the property website, and ask for the specific floor plan and view.
Confirm your reservation
— Know your apartment number and actual address. Some companies will promise short-term apartments based on expected availability. If the agent can’t provide you with your apartment number, you may find yourself without a place to stay.
Know and abide by pet restrictions
— Rules about pets vary by property, but they all have “no aggressive breeds” policies and most have restrictions and limitations on pet weight. Nonrefundable pet fees, deposits, and monthly pet rent will apply according to pet weight. Two pets per apartment is the maximum.
Purchase renter's insurance
— It’s fairly inexpensive and a simple addition to your homeowner’s policy.
Verify your lease
— Your corporate apartment lease will itemize everything that will be included, as well as your rent amount, utility caps, and the lease term agreed to.