A Standby Plan

>>JoAnne Holt works daily with people in the midst of divorce, which she describes as "restructuring the family." Holt, a Fort Myers family law specialist and forensic accountant, has found a way to help those engaged in the process, with more than 2,500 divorce cases in Lee County each year.

In March, she launched standbyhousing.com, which brings owners of rental real estate together with people in immediate need of temporary housing, such as individuals going through a divorce. Gulfshore Business asked Holt how the site works.

What is standbyhousing.com?

It is a Web site for those needing a short-term housing option due to business travel, relocation, separation, divorce or other domestic issues. The site puts owners of available rentals together with renters.

What is the site’s goal?

Often, the emotional stress of separation and divorce is compounded by financial insecurity. When one party has to vacate a residence, it results in additional financial and emotional strain during a very difficult time. Men often resign themselves to a buddy’s couch in lieu of trying to find a new home. This puts even more stress on him, and often there is not a room for overnight stays with his children at a time when they need close contact the most. The alternative is signing a long-term lease and heading to Rooms To Go to purchase $15,000 worth of furniture. Women who leave home are frequently overwhelmed with the many decisions that have to be made while trying to maintain the needs of their children. Of course, men and women find themselves in either of the above scenarios. Standbyhousing.com offers an alternative: access to a fully furnished residence available right now on a short-term basis.

How long are the typical rentals?