Curated Accommodation Platforms
Finding the right platform for your long-term housing needs can save you time, money, and stress. We've researched and vetted these platforms based on reliability, user reviews, and value for expats and digital nomads.
Quick Navigation
Platform Selection Tip
Different platforms excel in different regions. For best results, check both our global recommendations and region-specific options for your destination.
Global Accommodation Platforms
Airbnb Monthly Stays
Best for: First-time expats, flexible arrangements
Strengths: Global coverage, secure payments, reviews
Weaknesses: Higher fees, often more expensive than local options
Typical discounts: 20-50% for monthly stays
Spotahome
Best for: Urban apartments, verified properties
Strengths: Property verification, video tours, secure booking
Weaknesses: Service fees, limited to major cities
Coverage: 29 cities across Europe, expanded to UAE
HousingAnywhere
Best for: Mid to long-term stays, student areas
Strengths: Secure booking system, direct landlord contact
Weaknesses: Listing quality can vary
Coverage: 400+ cities globally, strongest in Europe
Europe-focused Platforms
Flatio
Best for: Mid-term stays (1-12 months), furnished flats
Strengths: No agency fees, monthly payments, fixed bills
Coverage: 17 European countries, 60+ cities
Unique feature: Virtual tours available for most properties
Idealista
Best for: Local market rates, long-term leases
Strengths: Large inventory, direct contact with owners
Weaknesses: Less English support, few verification features
Coverage: Spain, Portugal, Italy
ImmoScout24
Best for: German-speaking countries, local rates
Strengths: Comprehensive listings, detailed filters
Weaknesses: High competition for desirable properties
Coverage: Germany, Austria, Switzerland
Asia-focused Platforms
Hipflat
Best for: Thailand real estate, condos, houses
Strengths: Comprehensive Thai market coverage
Weaknesses: Limited English support from some owners
Unique feature: Detailed neighborhood insights
Property Guru
Best for: Southeast Asia property search
Strengths: Detailed property information, market insights
Coverage: Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam
Unique feature: Neighborhood pricing data
Flatmates.com.au
Best for: Shared accommodation in Australia
Strengths: Detailed profiles, secure messaging
Weaknesses: Limited to shared housing options
Coverage: Australia (major cities and regional areas)
Americas-focused Platforms
Zillow
Best for: US-based rentals, detailed market data
Strengths: Comprehensive market coverage, filters
Weaknesses: US-focused only
Unique feature: Detailed neighborhood data
Mercado Libre
Best for: Latin American real estate
Strengths: Large inventory, local prices
Weaknesses: Spanish/Portuguese language needed
Coverage: Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Chile
Vivanuncios
Best for: Mexican real estate
Strengths: Comprehensive listings, direct contact
Weaknesses: Spanish language needed
Coverage: Mexico (all major cities and tourist areas)
Mid-term Stay Specialists (1-6 months)
Sonder
Best for: Premium apartment stays, business travelers
Strengths: Hotel-like consistency, 24/7 support
Weaknesses: Higher price point, limited locations
Coverage: 35+ cities in North America, Europe, Middle East
Blueground
Best for: Furnished apartments, flexible leases (1+ months)
Strengths: Premium properties, consistent quality
Weaknesses: Premium pricing, limited to major cities
Coverage: 26 cities across North America, Europe, Middle East, Asia
Anyplace
Best for: Remote workers, flexible month-to-month
Strengths: Work-friendly setups, flexible terms
Weaknesses: Limited inventory in some regions
Unique feature: Guaranteed fast wifi, workspaces
Platform Comparison
| Platform | Best For | Typical Fees | Verification | Booking Protection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airbnb | Flexibility, ease | 12-15% total | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Spotahome | Verified urban rentals | Service fee + 1st month | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| HousingAnywhere | Students, young professionals | 25% of 1st month | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Flatio | Mid-term European stays | 15% of 1st month | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Idealista | Local rates in S. Europe | No platform fees | ★★☆☆☆ | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Blueground | Premium flexible leases | Premium pricing | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Important Safety Tips
- Never wire money or pay in cryptocurrency before seeing a property
- Be suspicious of listings that seem too good to be true
- Use platforms with secure payment systems when possible
- Always get a proper contract for stays longer than a few weeks