What is homelike? Platform guide & top alternative

In today’s fast-paced world where professionals frequently relocate for work assignments, finding comfortable, well-furnished accommodations for extended stays has never been more important.

Homelike has emerged as a significant player in this space, but what exactly is this platform and how does it compare to alternatives? Let’s dive deep into everything you need to know about Homelike and why there might be better options for your specific needs.

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What is Homelike?

Homelike is a German-founded online marketplace specialising in furnished apartments for mid to long-term rentals. Established in 2015 by Dustin Figge and Christoph Kasper, the platform has grown to include over 70,000 properties across more than 450 cities in seven European countries and the United States.

The platform targets business travellers and professionals seeking accommodations for stays of 28 days or longer, filling an important gap between short-term holiday rentals and traditional year-long leases.

Is Homelike legit?

A common question from potential users is about Homelike’s legitimacy and trustworthiness. The short answer is yes, Homelike is a legitimate business with a substantial market presence. As an established company operating since 2015, they’ve served thousands of corporate clients and individual business travellers.

The platform implements verification processes for both landlords and properties, secure payment systems, and has attracted significant venture capital funding over the years.

However, like any marketplace, experiences can vary based on individual properties and landlords. This is why many savvy travellers also consider alternatives like GuestReady, which offers additional quality assurances and personalised support throughout the booking process.

How Homelike works

For tenants

Homelike simplifies the apartment hunting process with:

• A streamlined online booking system
• Digital lease agreements
• Verified property listings
• No in-person viewings required
• Secure payment processing

The platform particularly caters to corporate clients and business travellers who need quality accommodations without the time-consuming traditional rental process.

 

 

For property managers

Property owners and managers benefit from:

• Access to a large pool of pre-vetted professional tenants
• Instant booking capabilities
• Secure online rent collection
• Flexible pricing options
• Digital contract management
• Reduced vacancy periods

Key features of Homelike

Homelike distinguishes itself with several noteworthy features:

1. Corporate-ready accommodations: All listings are specifically designed for business travellers with amenities like high-speed internet, workspace areas, and fully-equipped kitchens.
2. Digital-first experience: The entire booking process happens online, from initial search to contract signing.
3. Longer minimum stays: With a 28-day minimum rental period, Homelike focuses exclusively on the medium to long-term market.
4. Corporate integration: Special tools for business clients allow companies to manage employee accommodations through centralised dashboards.
5. Verification process: Properties undergo a verification process to maintain quality standards.

Limitations of Homelike

While Homelike offers an efficient solution for many, some limitations include:

• Geographic restrictions: Despite expansion, coverage remains limited primarily to major European cities and select US locations
• Price point: Properties generally target the mid to premium market
• Limited flexibility: The 28-day minimum stay requirement restricts options for travellers with shorter needs
• Less personal touch: The digital-only approach may lack the personalisation some travellers prefer

Why consider alternatives like GuestReady?

While Homelike offers a solid platform, GuestReady’s booking website provides several distinct advantages that make it worth considering for your extended stay needs:

• Greater flexibility: Unlike Homelike’s 28-day minimum, GuestReady offers more flexible booking periods to accommodate various travel schedules.
• Enhanced local expertise: GuestReady properties are managed by teams with deep local knowledge, ensuring you receive insider tips and personalised recommendations.
• Superior guest support: With 24/7 guest assistance and local support teams, GuestReady delivers a more comprehensive support system than many competitors.
• Curated property selection: Each GuestReady property undergoes rigorous quality assessment, ensuring consistently high standards across all locations.
• Seamless technology: GuestReady’s booking platform combines technological efficiency with human touch points for the perfect balance of convenience and personalisation.

Who benefits most from Homelike?

Homelike is particularly well-suited for:

• Corporate travellers on assignments of 1-6 months
• Companies managing employee relocations
• Professionals in transition between permanent homes
• Property managers targeting the corporate rental market

However, travellers seeking more flexibility or personalised service may find GuestReady’s solutions more aligned with their needs.

The future of extended stay accommodations

The extended stay sector continues to evolve rapidly, with platforms like Homelike and GuestReady leading innovation. As remote work becomes increasingly common, the demand for flexible, high-quality accommodations will likely continue to grow.

For travellers and property managers alike, staying informed about the various options available ensures you can make the best choice for your specific circumstances.

Ready to find your perfect extended stay?

While Homelike offers one solution in the furnished apartment marketplace, GuestReady provides an exceptional alternative with greater flexibility, personalised service, and carefully curated properties.

Planning your next business trip? GuestReady offers flexible booking options, local expertise, and round-the-clock support for all your accommodation needs. Our carefully curated properties have become the preferred choice for professionals seeking quality extended stays. Explore GuestReady today and discover a refreshing approach to business travel accommodations.