Having the ability to work wherever you want is arguably the most important perk of becoming a digital nomad. You can opt to prepare presentations while spending time on a tropical island or participate in meetings while touring the continental USA. You can even recruit new talents to your business while you’re in a completely different time zone from the rest of your team members. It’s a lifestyle that offers exceptional work-life balance and the opportunity to see the world on your own terms.
Untethered to physical offices, digital nomads tend to move from one place to another. As such, they frequently find themselves on the market for a short-term rental. If you’re in the same boat, then you’re probably looking for ways to streamline your house-hunting process. One way to do that is to know exactly what you should be looking for in a rental home. Similar to recruiting real estate agents, finding the right short-term home requires a keen understanding of your needs and expectations as a digital nomad.
To that end, here’s a list of the features you should look for in a rental home and how each can contribute to your chosen professional and personal lifestyle:
Centrally Accessible Location
In the digital nomad lifestyle, reliable internet connectivity is a lifeline. As such, it’s best to look for rental homes in areas with robust internet infrastructure—ideally with options such as fiber optic or high-speed internet. After all, you don’t want to end up with a choppy connection during an important meeting. Additionally, consider the property’s proximity to co-working spaces, cafes, and similar amenities. These can provide digital nomads and remote workers like yourself with conducive work environments and networking opportunities.
Safe and Secure Neighborhood
Safety should be a top priority when choosing a rental home, especially if you’re staying in a place far from home and you’re all on your own. Research the crime rates and security measures in the neighborhood or building you are considering. When looking at buildings, in particular, evaluate the entry systems and check if the structure has well-lit surroundings. It should also have easy access to emergency services in case you do end up encountering unwanted issues during your stay.
A Dedicated and Well-Designed Workspace
Many digital nomads require a dedicated workspace in their homes to maintain their productivity. After all, it’s best to have a sense of separation between where you spend your free time and where you work. If you need a similar setup, then look for rental homes that provide a designated workspace or a separate room that can be transformed into an office. This is especially important if you tend to spend most of your productive hours at home. If the rental has an existing office, check if the room offers natural light, ergonomic furniture, and a quiet environment that will help you focus.
Amenities and Facilities That Offer Creature Comforts
Of course, your rental home will become more than just an office during your stay. It will also be the place where you’ll sleep, rest, cook, and do other domestic activities. Consider if the amenities offered by the rental home will allow you to do all these. A well-equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, and comfortable living spaces are essential for a convenient and hassle-free lifestyle. Additionally, look for amenities like a gym, pool, or communal areas that can enhance your overall living experience.
Flexible Short-Term Rental Options
Another important matter to address when looking for a rental property is how long will you be staying in it. Some digital nomads have flexible timelines, while others tend to stick to their schedules. To be safe, look for short-term rental options with flexible lease terms. If you’re after a place that you can quickly move into, check out platforms and websites specializing in short-term rentals. Choosing such an accommodation allows you to adapt your living arrangements to your changing travel plans.
A Community That Understands the Digital Nomad Lifestyle
Some neighborhoods or cities have vibrant digital nomad communities. Research and consider locations where digital nomads thrive, as these places often provide opportunities for networking, collaboration, and shared experiences. Often, these areas also offer plenty of co-working spaces, networking events, and social activities that help foster a sense of community. You might even end up building connections that might end up benefitting your career.
Affordable Rental Costs and a Landlord Who Is Open to Negotiation
Budgeting is crucial for people living the digital nomad lifestyle. To stay within your budget, make sure to research rental costs in the areas you are interested in and negotiate with the landlords when possible. Consider factors such as rental rates, utility expenses, and additional fees when presenting your offer. Also, you might want to read through your rental agreement to ensure a fair deal before finalizing anything. This brings us to our final point.
A Fair Rental Agreement and a Contract You Agree With
Before finalizing a rental agreement, carefully review all the terms and conditions. Seek legal advice if necessary to ensure a fair and transparent agreement, especially if you’re not familiar with the laws and regulations in the area. Pay attention to details such as the lease duration, deposit requirements, and any restrictions or additional charges mentioned in the contract. In the end, making sure you have a fair agreement also makes it easier to have a harmonious and trouble-free relationship with your lessor—further reducing sources of unwanted distractions.
Finding the perfect rental home as a digital nomad requires careful consideration of various factors. Evaluate your needs carefully and have a clear vision of how your chosen accommodation should help you continue your lifestyle. This way, you’ll have an easier time visualizing how your ideal rental home should be. Choosing wisely can even help your workdays be more efficient in general. So take the time to research and choose your next residence wisely so you can enjoy the freedom and flexibility of the digital nomad experience.