Think You Don’t Need to Move Out for Renovation? Think Again

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“People don’t think they need to leave. That’s the first hurdle you need to get over. I call it renovation denial,” says Alex Bandon, the owner and renovation project manager at North River Renovation Management in New York City.

Do you really need to go? It all depends on the extent and length of the renovation, but consider this unpleasant long-term project scenario: “A crew will always show up at your house at 7 a.m. while you’re just getting out of bed in your bathrobe and every day when they leave, the house will always be dirty,” says Bandon.

So as the undead sometimes say (to the living) in B-horror films: “Get. Out.” Where’s a temporarily homeless homeowner to go? Try these five options.

1. Rent without a lease

Thanks to sites such as Airbnb.com and VRBO.com, many owners now rent out their homes for stints shorter than a real rental, but longer (and more affordable) than a hotel. If you reside in a town with a tourism economy, this might be your ticket. These short-term rental options are furnished, often with well-stocked kitchens and all the accoutrements you need for daily life.

Consider this: This is probably a good option for a project that is scheduled for about two weeks. Many of these services rent by the weekend or week, so if you’re looking at a few months, it’ll probably get pricey. In San Francisco, the cheapest option on Airbnb in January (low season in that city) for a small group to rent a private home, condo, or apartment tops $3,500. A home away from home will cost you even in the Midwest. In Cincinnati in April, for example, a house large enough for a family of four will cost an average of $2,500 per month on Airbnb. And it may be nearly impossible to extend your stay if you hit construction snags and another occupant is already lined up for your place.

2. Camp out

Want to keep a close eye on your home’s progress? Camp out in your own driveway! A trailer (such as options from this company) or an RV ($59 to $79 per night in Chicago this fall and winter, according to Cruise America RV Rental Sales) can be delivered as a self-contained home on wheels with a generator, shower, bathroom, kitchen, heating and air conditioning, and beds.

Consider this: These are close quarters! Not the best option for claustrophobes or families with children.

3. Check into an extended-stay hotel

Business travelers do it all the time while working on a project in another city: Check into a suite or studio room and take advantage of hotel-like amenities. Extended Stay Hotels is based in Charlotte, NC, and features five extended-stay brands across the U.S., including Homestead Studio Suites and Extended StayAmerica (touting prices 31% less than a hotel). In addition to a full kitchen in each suite, there’s a free continental breakfast as well as a complimentary shuttle to local stores and restaurants. Staybridge Suites claims “the longer you stay, the less you pay” mantra—and means it. Booking a Fort Lauderdale, FL, property for 60 days this spring runs $148 a night and dips to $135 nightly for a 90-day stay.

Consider this: You’ll probably be living close to an airport or in a busy commercial area, which is not so great for those craving a neighborhood vibe, and facing a tough commute to school if you have kids.

4. Move in with Mom and/or Dad

What’s family for if not to house you in a time of need? Don’t be afraid to accept an offer (or drop a few hints). But of course you’re not a kid anymore. Ask if you can help with the rent or mortgage, or just pony up some cash for utilities or help around the house. If you’re handy, maybe you can take on some fix-it projects—or just tip your contractor to swing by.

Consider this: If the phrase “move in with mom and/or dad” just sent shivers down your spine, this probably isn’t the option for you. Even in the best of circumstances, the longer you stick around, the easier it is to slip back into old familial habits.

5. Rent in your own hood

You could opt to sign a lease—whether it’s for an apartment, house, or condo—in your own neighborhood. Ideally, choose a rental with a flexible end date on the lease, or month-to-month terms. Can’t find something through traditional listings? Consider reaching out to leaders or parenting organizations at your children’s schools.

Consider this: You will have limited choices within one geographic area. But it’s a solid option if you’re doing a gut renovation that will take at least three months.