20 Questions to Ask Your Host Before Booking

Can we do a live video walkthrough?

A live video walkthrough — not pre-recorded — is the closest you can get to an in-person visit. Any landlord with an available, legitimate property can accommodate this.

What is the exact drive time to [your assigned hospital] from the property?

Don't rely on the listing estimate. Ask the landlord to look it up with you or do it yourself on Google Maps. Factor in your typical shift start time — rush hour changes everything.

What floor is the unit on, and is there an elevator?

After a 12-hour night shift, climbing 4 flights of stairs with groceries matters.

How is the cell reception inside the unit?

Dead zones inside apartments are common in older buildings. Ask the landlord to test it during your video call.

What is the Wi-Fi speed? Can you run a speed test right now?

Ask them to open speedtest.net during your video call. Anything under 50 Mbps download will cause issues for video calls and documentation work.

What utilities are included in the rent?

Electricity, water, gas, internet, trash — get specifics. Are there any caps on usage? Some landlords include utilities up to a monthly cap and charge for overages.

Is parking included? Where is it exactly?

Ask to see the parking spot on camera. Is it covered? Dedicated? Gated? How far is it from the unit entrance?

Is laundry in-unit, or shared? What are the hours?

If shared, confirm the hours and location. If in-unit, ask the landlord to turn on the washer during the video call to confirm it works.

What kitchen equipment is included?

Pots, pans, dishes, coffee maker, microwave — ask specifically. Vague promises of 'fully furnished kitchen' often mean minimal equipment.

How many sets of towels and bed linens are provided?

You want at least 2 sets of each so you can wash one while using the other.

What is your early termination policy if my assignment is cancelled or changed?

Travel assignments get cancelled. Know exactly what you owe if you need to leave early — and negotiate if the terms seem harsh.

Can I extend month-to-month if my assignment is extended?

Assignment extensions at the last minute are common. Knowing your extension options in advance prevents scrambling.

What is the security deposit, and under what conditions is it withheld?

Get the answer in writing. Ask for specific examples of what would and wouldn't result in deductions.

What is the notice period required at move-out?

Typically 30 days, but confirm. Missing this can cost you your deposit.

Can I see the lease agreement before committing?

Never sign a lease you haven't read. A landlord who won't share the lease before you commit is a red flag.

Who do I contact for maintenance issues, and what is your typical response time?

You need to know this before your refrigerator breaks at 2am on a Tuesday.

Are you the property owner or a property manager?

Property managers can add a layer of bureaucracy. Knowing who you're dealing with helps set expectations.

How do check-in and check-out work?

Is there a smart lock with a code? In-person key exchange? What are the check-in hours? Can you arrive at midnight if your flight lands late?

Are there any restrictions I should know about? (guests, noise, pets)

Better to know the house rules upfront than to find out you're violating them.

Have you rented to travel nurses before? Do you have references?

Landlords who have successfully rented to travel nurses understand the lifestyle. References from previous nurse tenants are gold.