Graduate Hotels Ventures into Short-Term Home Rentals

During college game days, freshman move-in weekends, homecoming festivities, and graduation ceremonies, securing accommodations in university towns can be a daunting task, often leaving most hotels and vacation rentals fully booked months ahead. However, a new short-term rental initiative aims to alleviate some of this pressure—at least in two locations.

Known for its art-inspired hotels located near prominent college campuses, Graduate Hotels has recently unveiled Graduate Homes, a short-term rental program designed to enhance lodging options during peak times in the academic calendar.

"The short-term rental market has surged in recent years, and as a brand deeply rooted in university communities, we believe this is a logical progression for us," stated Kevin Osterhaus, president of Graduate Hotels, in a press release.

Currently, Graduate Homes are offered in only two of the brand's 30 U.S. markets—Oxford, Mississippi, and Ann Arbor, Michigan. However, if successful, the company plans to explore expansion into additional cities. For the initial launch, Graduate Homes features nine properties near the University of Mississippi (ranging from three bedrooms, three bathrooms to five bedrooms, four bathrooms) and two close to the University of Michigan (one with four bedrooms and two bathrooms, and another with five bedrooms and six bathrooms).

Guests will enjoy a range of standard hotel amenities, including a dedicated concierge who can handle everything from stocking the fridge to organizing tailgating events, complimentary bike rentals, shuttle services, access to pools and fitness facilities, and special discounts at the nearby Graduate Hotel's bars and restaurants.

Graduate Homes has teamed up with the experiential app Way to provide in-home activities such as yoga sessions and chocolate tasting events.

What sets Graduate Homes apart from Airbnb or Vrbo?

The key differences for renters lie in quality and size. Graduate Homes only accepts listings classified as "premium" (potential hosts must apply for consideration), and each property must have at least three bedrooms, full kitchens, living rooms, and laundry facilities.

Listing rates vary from $500 to $3,000 based on the house and location—these prices exclude taxes, and there are no extra charges like cleaning or service fees.

The primary distinction for hosts is significant. Unlike Airbnb, Graduate Homes manages all guest interactions, organizes post-stay cleanings, and supplies essential items such as glassware and towels.

Bookings, along with host applications, are currently open and can be completed at graduatehomes.com.