If you’re moving to Houston, your first few days in the city matter more than you think. Whether you're relocating for work, investing in property, or transitioning from out of state, where you stay temporarily can shape your entire first impression of the city.

At Bigfella Auto Express, we coordinate relocations into Houston every week. One pattern we’ve seen repeatedly? People booking low-cost hotels without researching current reviews — and regretting it.

This guide breaks down:

• What to know before moving to Houston
• Hotels in Houston that frequently show concerning review patterns
• What recent online feedback says
• Safer areas to consider for short-term stays

Why Your Hotel Choice Matters When Moving to Houston

Relocating already involves:

• Shipping a vehicle
• Waiting for apartment approvals
• Closing on a home
• Setting up utilities
• Coordinating movers

The last thing you want is:

• Cleanliness issues
• Parking lot safety concerns
• Noise disruptions
• Poor management response

Your short-term stay should reduce stress — not add to it.

Hotels to Avoid in Houston (Based on Recurring Online Review Patterns)

Below are hotels that consistently show repeated complaint themes across public review platforms like Google and travel review sites. Conditions can change, but these properties often display recurring concerns.

1. Londale Hotel – Review Breakdown

Common Review Themes:

• Outdated interiors
• Hallway odors
• Inconsistent room cleanliness
• Slow front desk response times
• Mixed comments about nighttime surroundings

Several reviews mention maintenance issues and a need for renovations. While pricing may be budget-friendly, many guests say expectations should be kept realistic.

Relocation Tip: If you're moving with family, pets, or valuable belongings, consider newer properties in more residential areas.

2. Great Value Inn – Review Breakdown

Common Review Themes:

• Repeated cleanliness complaints
• Noise disturbances
• Reports of loitering in parking areas
• Dated furnishings

Budget-focused travelers sometimes choose this property, but many reviewers recommend inspecting rooms before committing to multi-night stays.

3. Scottish Inns & Suites (Select Locations)

Because this is a franchise brand, experiences vary by address.

Recurring Themes in Certain Southwest Houston Locations:

• Plumbing and maintenance complaints
• Safety concerns in surrounding blocks
• Thin walls and noise issues
• Inconsistent housekeeping

Always check the exact address and read the most recent reviews.

4. Platinum Inn & Suites (Certain Locations)

Again, quality varies by location.

Common Review Themes:

• Outdated rooms
• Lighting concerns in parking areas
• Mixed cleanliness scores
• Noise complaints

Some properties under this name perform better than others, so pay attention to neighborhood and recent guest feedback.

5. America's Best Value Inn (Various Locations)

As a franchise brand, experiences vary widely.

Recurring Review Complaints at Some Locations:

• Room condition issues
• Strong odors
• Security concerns in certain neighborhoods
• Maintenance delays

Always verify the exact property and compare it against nearby alternatives.

What Reviews Typically Reveal (Patterns to Watch For)

When researching hotels in Houston before moving, look for:

🚩 Repeated Cleanliness Mentions

If multiple recent reviews mention odor, stains, pests, or visible wear — take it seriously.

🚩 Parking Lot Safety Comments

If guests frequently mention loitering, poor lighting, or vehicle break-ins — reconsider.

🚩 “You Get What You Pay For” Language

This phrase in reviews often signals below-average conditions.

🚩 Management Not Responding to Complaints

Hotels that don’t address concerns publicly may not address them privately either.

Better Areas for Temporary Stays in Houston

If you're relocating and want a smoother transition, consider booking hotels in:

• The Heights
• West University
• Energy Corridor
• Katy
• Sugar Land
• Cypress
• Galleria/Uptown

These areas tend to have:

• Newer builds
• Stronger neighborhood ratings
• Better lighting and parking conditions
• More residential surroundings

Moving to Houston in 2026: What to Expect

Houston continues to attract:

• Remote workers
• Energy sector professionals
• Medical center employees
• Real estate investors
• Entrepreneurs

With no state income tax and relatively affordable housing compared to coastal markets, Houston remains a relocation hotspot.

But because the city is so large, quality varies dramatically by zip code.

Pro Tip: Before Booking Any Houston Hotel

1. Sort reviews by most recent
2. Read 1-star AND 3-star reviews
3. Use Google Street View to examine surroundings
4. Search the hotel name + “safety” or “cleanliness”
5. Compare with nearby alternatives within a 1–2 mile radius

A $25–$40 price difference per night is often worth avoiding relocation stress.

Final Thoughts on Hotels to Avoid in Houston

Houston is full of opportunity — thriving business sectors, diverse neighborhoods, and strong economic growth.

But your first impression matters.

If you’re moving to Houston and coordinating vehicle transport, temporary housing, or a multi-state relocation, planning ahead can save you frustration.

At Bigfella Auto Express, we regularly help clients moving into Houston coordinate seamless vehicle delivery while they secure long-term housing.