When we went to CHPA Connect25, there were five industry secrets we learned that every property owner should know. These important trends were front and center as over 550 corporate housing professionals gathered in San Diego earlier this year for CHPA Connect. The event was a dynamic hub for exploring global trends and strengthening collaboration between operators and corporate clients. Our team was proud to be part of the conversation—sharing insights and gaining valuable perspectives on what today’s business travelers truly expect.
Here are five key takeaways everyone in the relocation space should know:
#1 It’s Not Just About Fixing Issues—It’s About Hospitality
In a panel focused on delivering exceptional guest experiences across various accommodation fulfillment models—whether direct inventory, franchise, on-demand, or agency—one central message rang true: first impressions matter. A guest’s arrival sets the tone for their entire stay, making seamless check-ins and well-prepared units essential. Pre-arrival inspections were emphasized as the most effective way to ensure quality and consistency across different models.
Angela Healy, Co-Owner and CEO of AvenueWest, has a perspective on this. “Hospitality is 24/7. These are homes. They need maintenance and attention and yes we do try to do all of that before someone arrives but, inevitably, we walk out the door and someone walks in, and the highest smoke detector will suddenly start chirping. The important thing is that we are there. We will be right back, get it fixed, and make it right as quickly as possible,” says Healy.
As Healy rightly says, while the goal is always to prevent service issues, the panel highlighted that when problems do arise, clear communication and setting expectations are critical. How providers respond—quickly, empathetically, and transparently—can make all the difference in maintaining client trust. Often, it’s not about offering compensation; business travelers, especially those who are relocating and are stressed out. What those travelers value most is being heard and supported.
Guests aren’t just looking for solutions—they’re looking for ease. Resolving an issue is only part of the equation; the simplicity and convenience of the process matter just as much.
#2 Corporate Housing Across the Globe: One Industry, Many Realities
The panel on global corporate housing revealed just how diverse the industry is across the globe. Whether it’s flexibility, inventory, or guest preferences—standards and expectations differ from region to region.
In the U.S., extended stays often start at 30 nights but can be easily adjusted to 90 or more, thanks to lease-flexible inventory. (At AvenueWest, the average stay is 99 days). In contrast, many international markets operate on long-term inventory agreements, limiting adaptability. As serviced apartments dominate urban hubs, offering amenities like airport transfers and daily breakfast, while rural areas rely more on local providers with flexible setups.
Cultural and logistical differences also play a big role. In emerging markets like Latin America, corporate housing is still growing, often rooted in leisure models with fixed-term leases and fewer flexible policies. Infrastructure challenges in many cities also impact service delivery and require relocation companies to navigate expectations carefully.
But you don’t have to go as far as another continent to find regional differences. Across America, there can be cultural differences from state to state in terms of both traveler expectations and what is common in each area.
Ultimately, success in corporate housing depends on understanding local nuances, adapting to regional norms, and educating clients on what to expect beyond major metropolitan areas.
#3 Tech Is Essential—But the Human Touch Still Matters
The panel on industry outlook and future trends made it clear: while technology is changing corporate housing, it’s not a cure-all. From instant booking to real-time availability, tech-driven experiences are now expected—especially by younger professionals entering the workforce. There’s also a growing demand for seamless, all-in-one platforms that streamline the booking process.
But as much as AI and automation improve efficiency, they can’t replace empathy. The panel emphasized that human connection remains at the heart of this people-first industry. Guests may prefer tech-led check-ins, but when issues arise, what they really want is someone who listens and understands.
As technology continues to evolve, providers must balance innovation with thoughtful implementation. Poorly managed systems can lead to real-world problems—like a guest missing a check-in code mid-flight. In short, while technology moves us forward, success still depends on the people behind it.
#4 Political Uncertainty and Long-Term Trends in Global Mobility
The panel on industry outlook highlighted the growing uncertainty in global mobility, partly due to the high number of elections worldwide. Some markets experienced growth while others faced stagnation, particularly in Europe, where immigration issues add complexity.
Despite the intense chatter about politics and uncertainty, the panel urged attendees not to get sidetracked. When the focus shifts to the data, they suggested, the real issue becomes clear: a significant talent gap, particularly in STEM fields. The panelists felt that immigration would be key in filling this gap over the next decade, which will create long-term assignments needing corporate housing.
#5 Visa Policies and Delays: A Persistent Roadblock for Global Mobility
Visa delays remain one of the most urgent challenges in global mobility, with extended processing times leading to last-minute calls requesting postponed arrivals.
These delays stem from the complexity and inconsistency of visa systems worldwide. The ripple effects are far-reaching—delayed employee travel, disrupted housing timelines, and tighter constraints on assignment planning. For operators, staying flexible and alert to policy shifts is now essential.
Yet, while these challenges are real, they’re also opening doors.
The panel discussed opportunities that shifting visa landscapes can offer. With digital nomad visas becoming more popular and countries loosening immigration rules to attract global talent, new accommodation needs are emerging. For example, COMPASS in Singapore is a points-based visa system that makes it easier to process applications. It also requires more flexibility which presents its own challenge.
Still, even with some progress, uncertainty reigns. Delayed visa approvals often mean the housing originally secured is no longer available by the time the employee is cleared to travel.
It’s a catch-22: corporate housing providers are expected to secure accommodations before a visa is confirmed, yet many visa applications require a fixed address—something that can’t be guaranteed without visa approval.
Visa restrictions also force mobility managers to adopt a more tailored, country-specific approach. Some countries require a 90-day minimum stay to approve a visa, while many corporate policies cap stays at 30 or 60 days. Better education for mobility managers is required in order to align company policies with government requirements.
And it’s not just the visa—shipping timelines are often delayed as well, since household goods typically follow the same timeline as visa processing.
Global events—like U.S. port strikes or conflicts in the Middle East—are causing major delays. Even with visa approval, household goods often remain in limbo. Flexibility is essential at every stage of the process, not just at the beginning.
In a world where visa delays are here to stay, the path forward lies in preparation. That means educating clients, aligning policies with local regulations, staying on top of global developments, and adjusting booking strategies accordingly. Above all, staying flexible and proactive will help operators continue to support global mobility effectively.
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Whether you’re navigating market shifts or expanding your portfolio, staying informed is your greatest asset. Connect with AvenueWest to see how our insights and experience can help you stay ahead—no matter what the headlines say.
