Furnished (Minimalist) Apartments in Seattle
When Airbnbs began disappearing (and increasing rates) during the pandemic, I sought out furnished (minimalist) apartments in Seattle that I could lease for three months or more.
I wasn’t sure how long I’d be staying in Seattle, but it was clear this might be my only lodging option—a temporary or long-term housing option that anyone might need.
But with Seattle housing typically unavailable and expensive, I wasn’t certain a lease would be available or affordable, as even Seattle micro-apartments are usually priced out of reach.
However, I soon found that due to apartment dwellers moving out of the city to work remotely, the Seattle apartment market had increasing vacancy with some decreasing rates.
So I was pleasantly surprised to find some more affordable furnished apartments in the Seattle market that met my preferences for a minimalist stay:
minimalist studios
cozy, affordable to heat
newer, streamlined interiors
cleaner, easy to clean
natural light
makes me so happy
reduces electricity needs
boosts mental health
full in-unit amenities
dishwasher
front-loading washer/dryer
high-speed internet
within walking distance (or mass transport) to all one needs
natural markets
veg restaurants
nature + local sights
easy utility services
utilities automatically included in the rent, or
utilities automatically added on to the rent each month, or
automated/easy account set-up with local utilities
Barsala
Barsala partners with apartment complexes, renting out short- and long-term units (that are sitting vacant) to responsible travelers until locals begin filling more units.
When I first viewed Barsala’s website, I didn’t think their furnished apartments would ever be priced within my chosen budget—until I saw discounted rates.
Some units are up to 60% off for certain monthly reservations.
So during (and just after) our quarantine, I rented two of their units, in full-service apartment buildings, living alongside locals for three months.
“Live easy, make the world your home. Sophisticated accommodations. Upscale amenities. The flexibility of home. Discover a new way to stay.
“The best of home, the best of a hotel. Barsala set out to solve the traveler’s dilemma … you’ll find an upscale, well-designed home base with premium amenities at a lower cost than traditional hotels.
“Sophisticated stays. Professionally cleaned, well-designed spaces. Full kitchens. In-unit laundry. Upscale amenities, from toiletries to on-site gyms.
“Locations in the urban areas you want to be in. Flexible short-term or long-term stays. 24/7 customer support. Modern & tech-driven. Mobile check-in. Blazing fast wifi.
“Find us coast to coast. All of our locations are carefully curated to be in walkable areas, right where you want to be. Explore our locations and find your perfect next stay.”
Blueground
Blueground works with property owners, turning their empty rentals into minimalist spaces that responsible locals and travelers want to rent.
Blueground offers these beautiful spaces nationally and abroad, but I didn’t think they would ever fit within my chosen budget.
Yet, I’ve kept my eye on their website, where they’ve been offering select units at more affordable monthly rates—up to 50% off.
This definitely makes it possible to find more financially sustainable lodging in the expensive Seattle market.
“Show up. Start living. Move-in ready, beautifully furnished apartments for stays of a month, year or even longer.
“Rent on your own terms. Make your lease follow your life, and not the other way around. We do all the legwork so you can book today & move in tomorrow to the furnished space you always dreamed of.
“Hefty savings on costly furniture & moving fees. On stays of a month or longer, enjoy reduced rates up to 50% off on select reservations.
“Or stay 1 year or longer in a sleek, furnished home and save on the cost & hassle that goes into setting up an unfurnished unit.
“Flexibility to change the way you rent and live. Live month to month, or nest for the long haul. Move between apartments or neighborhoods to experience a new city like never before.
“Our homes are centrally-based in vibrant neighborhoods & fully-equipped for refined living -- smart TVs, stocked kitchens, plush bedding, premium toiletries & amenities in select buildings.
“Make your apartment your ideal work-from-anywhere destination, complete with high-speed WiFi, WFH spaces, and working desks/chairs.”
East Howe Steps
I stumbled across East Howe Steps while searching through corporate housing options.
I don’t usually look at corporate housing because corporate housing is typically priced high without full in-unit amenities.
But something made me look at corporate housing again, and I’m so glad I did.
East Howe Steps rents apartments to locals and travelers alike, with furnished monthly rates that were more reasonably priced than any other I found in Seattle at that time.
East Howe Steps even offers kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals.
Within walking distance of Lake Union, I knew I could also easily take public transportation to just about anywhere in Seattle.
I almost rented at East Howe Steps, but I was concerned with how one of their new employees was treated by management, so I thought it wise to rent elsewhere.
If management changes hands or corrects that issue—ensures all are treated with kindness and respect—I would definitely consider East Howe Steps in the future.
“An industrial legacy, an exceptional home, an innovative community—experience it all at East Howe Steps.
“Enjoy a stellar combination of roomy suburban comfort and hip urban vibe within the studio, one and two bedroom apartments along the Eastlake shore of Seattle’s iconic Lake Union.
“The unbeatable location delivers convenient shopping, fine dining and immediate access to kayaking and other lake activities.
“When you get one of our Seattle apartments for rent, you won't have to worry about a long commute. Major employers like Amazon and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center are an easy walk or quick bus ride away.
“Life at our Eastlake Seattle apartments is relaxed, stylish and filled with modern conveniences to warm your home.
“Soak up the beauty outside your doors with our expansive rooftop deck and open-air walkways and courtyards. Enjoy quality time with your dog in our pet friendly apartments.”
Landing
When I checked out Landing, I found they offered furnished apartments for short-term and long-term use, a satisfaction guarantee, plus a membership option.
For an annual membership fee (currently $199), one can even take things a step further by renting a Landing apartment wherever they wish as well as transfer to other Landing apartments, without paying application fees, deposits, or long-term leases.
With Landing apartments and concierge services in 74 major cities, this is worth considering. Again, I keep my eyes peeled for special pricing.
“Start Here, Live Anywhere. Landing is redefining apartment living with a network of homes all across the country, giving you the freedom and flexibility to live everywhere.
“Free to roam, still at home. With Landing, you set the terms. Looking for a 12-month lease? Of course we can do that. Need something shorter? That’s no problem. Not sure how long you’ll stay? That works, too. It’s all about giving you the flexibility.
“Landing members enjoy amazing apartments in an array of cities and the ability to adapt to the moment with flexible leasing and always on support. The right home is always waiting for you.
“Member benefits: Prime locations in 74 major U.S. cities, with more coming soon; Fully furnished and unfurnished homes available; Transfer in as little as 30 days notice; No deposit required; no applications or fees to transfer; Managed homesharing (for applicable communities); 24/7 concierge service”
Ori Apartments
Ori’s furnished apartments are on “The Ave” in the University District, with an incredible walkability score. They’re often marketed to UW students, yet anyone can rent at Ori.
The secure building has efficiency units, little balconies, and trees or skyline in the view from the top floor apartments.
Ori’s monthly rates were mid-range for Seattle when I leased a unit for six months (the unit in the photo).
I loved this apartment and I loved living in the U District, especially since the manager at the time was amazing (she is no longer there).
It is a neighborhood that’s currently a little rough, yet tenants seem unfazed by this. I dealt with this by avoiding the busy areas of The Ave, choosing to instead walk on 15th Ave.
I especially loved the nearby Seatle vegan Thai restaurant, Saturday Farmer’s Market, the park, and the light rail. One can make a quick trip to just about anywhere.
“Your home away from home. The most hassle-free move-in-ready studios located in the heart of U-District.
“Let Ori define what a real move-in-ready experience feels like...
“All Ori studios come furnished with a queen-size bed frame, a queen-size mattress, a kitchenette, and a washer and dryer.
“Just bring your bags and let us make you feel at home instantly the minute you move in!”
The M Seattle
The M Seattle was initially marketed as upscale housing for students, but they also confirmed that they actually rent to non-students of all ages, too.
A unique building, the nearby construction will more fully determine how this building will ultimately fit into the neighborhood.
The M’s amenities are plentiful, renting by the bed (for those who want roommates), as well as offering private apartments. All near the light rail station.
Rent includes everything, and when compared to other local rentals, the price is within typical Seattle rates.
But when I kept an eye out for their specials, monthly rates were lower.
“Take a peek inside the U-District's first luxury apartment high-rise where you'll enjoy unique amenities and spectacular views.
“The M features fully-furnished studio, one, two, three, and four-bedroom designer residences with high-end appliances, contemporary styling, and dramatic views. The M also features townhome and penthouse residences that offer an extra level of luxury.
“Our top floor includes a resident lounge, fitness center, yoga studio, and expansive study lounge, all with floor-to-ceiling windows to enable panoramic views of Seattle. Step outside to enjoy unobstructed views from the rooftop Skydeck featuring an outdoor landscaped terrace with grills, fire pits, and lounge seating.
“The M offers unbeatable walkability to "The Ave" and its vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment, the new light rail station and the University of Washington.
“Residents will enjoy chef-style kitchens with gas appliances and waterfall island countertops, contemporary furnishings and finishes, and floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views.”