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Temporary Stays vs Long-Term Rentals: What's the Difference?

Alec avatar
Written by Alec
Updated over 2 weeks ago

Who This Is For

Users who are not sure which housing type applies to their situation, or who want to understand the differences before submitting a request.


What You Will Learn

πŸ‘‰πŸΌ The duration boundary between temporary and long-term

πŸ‘‰πŸΌ How pricing and availability differ

πŸ‘‰πŸΌ What documents and commitments are involved

πŸ‘‰πŸΌ Which process applies to you


The Core Difference

MyStaysCo offers two distinct housing paths:

  • Temporary Stays: 3 nights - 12 months

  • Long-Term Rentals: 12 months and more

These are not just labels. They represent different processes, different expectations, and different levels of commitment.


Duration and Flexibility

Temporary stays are designed for relocations, project-based work, or transitional periods or leisure. The process is faster and more flexible. You can often secure housing within hours of submitting your request.

Long-term rentals are traditional leases. Landlords expect a formal application, verified documents, and a commitment to stay for at least one year. The process takes longer, but the monthly cost is lower.

If you are unsure how long you will stay, consider starting with a temporary stay. You can always transition to a long-term rental later.


Pricing Behavior

  • For temporary stays, pricing is shown per night or per month depending on the length. Prices are influenced by season, demand, and length of stay. Longer bookings within the temporary range often receive discounts.

  • For long-term rentals, pricing is shown as a monthly rate. These rates are more stable, but real estate agencies always require a 2-month deposit and 50% of the first month's rent upfront as an agency fee.


Documents and Verification

Temporary stays require minimal documentation. In most cases, a valid ID or passport is sufficient. This allows for faster booking and less friction.

Long-term rentals require full verification. Landlords typically ask for:

  • Government ID or passport

  • Employment verification (contract or employer letter)

  • Proof of income (recent payslips or bank statements)

This is similar to applying for a rental in your home country. The documentation protects both you and the landlord.


Booking vs Application

  • For temporary stays, you book directly once a property is confirmed available. The process is similar to booking a hotel or short-term rental.

  • For long-term rentals, you submit an application. The real estate agency reviews your profile before accepting. This means the process takes a bit longer.


What to Choose

Use this guide to determine which path applies to you:

Scenario

Recommended

Relocating for a 3-month project

Temporary Stay

Starting a new job and need housing for 1+ year

Long-Term Rental

Uncertain about stay duration

Start with Temporary

Visiting family or friends for 5 nights

Temporary Stay

Need an address to register quickly

Temporary Stay

Business trip

Temporary Stay

Moving with the Family to a new city

Temporary Stay or Long-Term Rental

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