How to Find Short Term Housing Options

Looking for short-term housing? Whether you're staying for just a semester, the summer, or simply need some flexibility, it's easy to narrow down your options on our housing site. 

Follow These Steps to Search for Short-Term Lease Options: 

1. Use the “More” Filters 

After entering your basic search (like location, price range, and bedroom count), click on the “More” dropdown to view additional filters:

2. Select a Lease Type 

In the Lease Information section, you'll see several options that work well for short-term needs: 

🔴 Short-Term Lease – Typically less than 12 months 

🟣 Month-to-Month Lease – Flexible and rolling leases 

🟢 Semester Lease – Ideal if you're only in town for one academic term 

🔵 Flexible Lease – May offer shorter commitments or adjustable lease terms

🟡 Summer, Fall, Winter, or Spring Sublet – Great for seasonal stays or internships  

3. Filter for Sublets (Optional) 

If you’re open to taking over someone else’s lease, you can check “Sublets Only.” 

Prefer not to sublet? No problem — just select “Exclude Sublets” to filter them out. 

4. Move-in Flexibility 

Use the Move-In Options filter to find listings that match your timeline — whether you need a place now or at a specific date in the future. 

🔍 Questions to Ask About Short-Term Leases 

Short-term housing can offer great flexibility — but lease terms and conditions often vary. Here are key questions to ask before committing: 

• Is there a premium for short-term leases? 

  Some properties charge higher monthly rent for leases under 12 months. 

• What is the minimum and maximum lease length allowed? 

  Clarify whether you're committing to a set term (e.g., 3 or 6 months) or if it's truly month-to-month. 

• Are there penalties for ending the lease early or extending it? 

  Ask about any fees, notice periods, or restrictions on changing your lease term. 

• Are lease dates flexible or fixed? 

  Confirm if you can choose your exact move-in and move-out dates — or if the lease follows a pre-set calendar. 

• What happens if your plans change? 

  Understand your options if you need to sublet, transfer the lease, or move out earlier than expected. 

• Is the lease renewable? 

  If there’s a chance you may want to stay longer, ask if you’ll have the option to extend and whether the same rate will apply. 

• Will the lease be in your name or someone else’s? 

  If subletting, make sure you know who’s legally responsible for the unit — and that it’s approved by the property owner. 

📝 Tips for Short-Term Searches 

• Short-term rentals may come at a higher cost. The flexibility is convenient, but landlords often charge a premium for shorter leases or furnished units. 
• Check “Flexible Lease” options — some landlords offer shorter terms even if not explicitly labeled as short-term. 
• Act fast — short-term options can go quickly, especially around semester breaks and summer! 
• Beware of scammers — if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Visit this page to learn more about avoiding rental scams.
• Read the fine print — Always review lease length, notice requirements, and subletting rules before signing. 
• Need more info? Visit our FAQs or reach out to our support team — we're here to help!