S
uzanne Hayes was faced with an unexpected challenge when she received a 30-day notice to vacate her rental home in Connecticut. The rising costs and stringent local rental market credit requirements had priced her out of affordable options, but instead of panicking, Hayes found an unconventional solution that improved her family's living situation.

    She discovered the Avon Old Farms Hotel, which offered a two-bedroom apartment-style suite for $2,200 per month, utilities included. The hotel's amenities, such as weekly deep-cleaning service and access to a gym and pool, made this temporary arrangement comfortable and enjoyable for Hayes and her children.

    Hayes acknowledges that living in a hotel has its impermanence, but she marvels at how quickly her kids have adapted to their new "vacation-style" home. Her family's experience speaks to the growing housing affordability crisis gripping the nation, which has prevented millions of Americans from purchasing a home.

    According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), 103.5 million households cannot afford the median-priced new home, now $495,750, with a mortgage interest rate of 6.5%. The dream of homeownership is becoming increasingly elusive for many, and experts warn that more substantial action is needed to address the chronic shortage of available homes.

    Hayes' family is finding solace in their temporary hotel haven, enjoying the unexpected benefits such as living a more minimalist life and having less laundry and clutter. Her experience highlights the need for innovative solutions to the housing affordability crisis, which continues to affect millions of Americans.