Define your needs. Staying a few weeks; months?

The extended stay concept makes sense if you want added features in a studio or suite setting and you can sign on for a minimum one-week stay. For longer stays (a month or more) or an open-ended lease, fully-furnished corporate housing is the way to go.

I recommend: To compare the two concepts, and see other helpful business travel resources, check out Biz-stay.com

Budget chains are widely available.

There are new players and venerable oldies in the budget extended stay arena. Features and geographic locations vary.

I recommend: Check out the details at Value Place, Extended Stay America, Studio6 (the extended stay affiliate of Motel 6) and Crossland.

Is luxury a top priority? There's no shortage of options.

If you want a suite outfitted with a pillow-top bed, fireplace or whirlpool bath, you'll find that and more at several upscale extended stay chains.

I recommend: Look into Summerfield Suites (a Hyatt chain), Residence Inn (Marriott), Staybridge Suites (InterContinental/Holiday Inn upscale) and StudioPLUS.

For longer-term stays, look into corporate housing.

When ongoing projects keep you away for weeks, opt for fully furnished apartments with plenty of amenities in residential neighborhoods.

I recommend: Look into Oakwood Worldwide, the largest serviced apartment provider in the world, and Marriott International's ExecuStay program.

Let others help you sort out the details.

These exceptional sources survey, report on, evaluate and connect properties and customers.

I recommend: Check out Biz-Stay.com, Interim Housing Solutions, and SuiteNet.