Exclusive Feature: Extended-stay hotels used to be a hotspot for business travelers, however today, though, guests are exploring new options and hotels are targeting vacationers, local renters, college students and more.

In 2016, more than 434,000 extended-stay hotels dominated the U.S. market, a 22% increase from the previous year. Surely, that number will continue growing as more people learn about the benefit of extended-stay accommodations.

If you want to develop new marketing strategies or pivot your budget, consider how hotels are already disrupting the industry.
Co-Living Communities

Traditionally, an extended stay was five nights or longer. However, today's guests want a blend of options — the ability to stay a few nights or even a few years. Extended-stay hotels should focus on the communal aspect of a stay, how guests of all backgrounds can enjoy amenities and common areas together.

Take WaterWalk Hotel Apartments in Wichita, Kan., for example. Here, the layout features an equal mix of apartments and extended-stay units, all within the same complex. No matter how long a guest stays, the experience is welcoming and all-inclusive.

The brand, which launched in 2014, plans to expand to 12 locations across the U.S.

Off-Campus Housing

Extended-stay hotels are often more affordable than a room on a college campus. Today's students want to cut costs and are willing to live off-campus to do so. Hotels that market to nearby university students can attract clientele who will likely live in the area for the next four years.

Marriott International recently unveiled plans to release a new room layout, a shared communal space similar to an upgraded dorm. The space includes four guest rooms and shared space with a kitchen, dining area and living room. Students can still feel a sense of community when living off-campus, all while saving money.

A Home for the Aging

An extended-stay hotel is an attractive solution for aging guests who live on a budget. Compared to a mortgage, a hotel stay is inexpensive. Plus, it includes a variety of benefits. The rooms are furnished and cleaned daily. All utilities, including Wi-Fi, telephone and cable, are included in rent. Guests can also use hotel amenities like pools, spas and business centers.

Take Gary, a 64-year-old man from Virginia, for example. Soon after relocating to Atlanta with his wife, he received a diagnosis of Stage III prostate cancer. He began treatment, could no longer work and couldn't afford rent. He and his wife moved to an extended-stay hotel and have lived there for years. They pay $800 a month and say the spot is ideal.

Last-Minute Movers

Sometimes, last-minute moves are unpredictable. There might be a new job offer or a family emergency. When someone needs to move quickly, though, the goal is still to find a suitable living space. They won't sign the first lease they come across. Instead, they'll find a temporary room option — like an extended-stay hotel — where they can conduct research.

Give apartment and house hunters what they want by offering real estate listings near the morning newspaper. Market transportation services for those looking to get familiar with the local area. Create a map of nearby attractions within walking distance. Plus, you can provide guests with affordable storage rental — or partner with a third-party service to direct them to.

Home Away From Home

Hotel guests of all types are shying away from traditional one-night options. Instead, they're opting for extended-stay hotels with several memorable amenities. Instead of relying on an outdated kitchenette or sad board game collection, travelers have access to everything needed when not at home.

The Roost Apartment Hotel in Philadelphia is a chic extended-stay experience like no other. All guests have access to in-room coffee makers, Apple TV, laundry facilities, a rooftop gym and a bike-share program. The experience is all about the little details.

The brand plans to open a second location nearby featuring a coffee-and-wine bar.

Extended-stay hotels are in high demand. However, the typical stay is no longer a week — most people stay four days or fewer. Guests expect standard hotel amenities mingled with one-of-a-kind options like co-living communities, all-inclusive facilities and home-like stays. If you're a hotelier looking to pivot toward new audiences, consider the above hotels making a splash in the industry.

This is strictly an exclusive feature, reprints of this article in any shape or form without prior written approval from 4Hoteliers.com is not permitted.

Kacey Bradley is the blogger behind The Drifter Collective, an eclectic lifestyle blog that expresses various forms of style through the influence of culture and the world around us. Kacey graduated with a degree in Communications while working for a lifestyle magazine. She has been able to fully embrace herself with the knowledge of nature, the power of exploring other locations and cultures, all while portraying her love for the world around her through her visually pleasing, culturally embracing and inspiring posts. Along with writing for her blog, she has written for sites like U.S. News, SUCCESS, Ruffled, and more!

www.driftercollective.com