By choosing to rent a vacation home, you've distinguished yourself from most travelers; you're sensible and savvy. You know hotels are overrated and overpriced and you'd prefer to live in luxury like a local, rather than out of your suitcase like a tourist. Despite your wise and sophisticated choice for lodging, you still might manage to jeopardize your vacation. Here are some easy, sure-fired tips to ensuring your trip lives up to, and even surpasses, your expectations.
1. Comparison shop
Many folks are so eager to get out of town that they horn in on the first appetizing deal and book too soon. It's worth it to spend quality time comparing your options (and there are thousands), so that you find the very best vacation rental for you and your loved ones. Because such a wide variety of vacation rentals are out there, you can easily end up with accommodations that seem designed for you and you alone - why settle for less?
2. Don't judge a vacation home by its photos
Photos are helpful. However, keep in mind that photos can also be misleading and outdated. Ask the owner for additional photos, and also ask candid questions about the size and look of the property; don't assume the photos have all the answers.
3. Verify the location
With the Internet, it's easy to discover precisely where your vacation rental is located. Ask for the physical address of the property and search for it on Google or Yahoo maps. See for yourself how close your doorstep is to your favorite attractions!
4. Read the fine print
Examine the rental contract carefully, and make sure any verbal agreement is in writing as well. The rental contract is your only means for retribution if something happens to go wrong on your trip, so don't take it lightly. Policies regarding pets, cancellation, cleaning fees, and security deposits, are especially important.
5. Be wary of wiring money
In many cases, wiring money to a bank account is the most efficient way to pay for your rental. However, make sure the vacation rental owner or management company you're wiring money to is legitimate! When you wire money, you put your financial security at risk, so you should be certain of where your money's going to before you wire it.
6. Don't put your faith in every vacation rental directory
Some vacation rental directories and sites are better than others; it's best to consider all your resources. Ask friends and family how they've found vacation rentals in the past and find out what their experiences were like.
7. Get to know the vacation rental owner!
Research the property and its owner as best as you can; seek out traveler reviews and take a look at the property beforehand if possible.
8. Don't be shy!
Do not be afraid to ask lots of questions and openly express any and all concerns. Outgoingness pays off when it comes to renting a vacation home!
9. Inform the owner of maintenance issues right away
If something goes wrong on your trip, whether it's minor or major, make sure the property management company or homeowner knows right away. This way the problem can be fixed immediately and you won't have to haggle over contract issues after the fact. Chances are things will go smoothly. But if they don't, the owner more than likely will be eager to assist - so be proactive!
10. Be kind and respectful
Remember, you may be staying in someone's second home and you have a deposit invested in it! Be gentle with the furniture and tidy up if there's not a maid. Vacation rentals thrive because of a basic trust between owners and renters, so help to keep this fabulous travel trend going by doing your part.