Choosing where to go on vacation also means choosing what type of accommodations you will pick. Some of us have our favorite hotel chain, while others go for the all-inclusive resort or cruise. Others seek out managed homes and villas in their favorite vacation destinations. Since there are quite a few more variables to renting a home than staying in a hotel, it’s important to do proper research when screening potential candidates.
More and more families are choosing a vacation rental home. This is due to a few factors. First, there is increased availability as more owners are offering there homes for rent, and at very competitive rates. Second, a home offers flexibility and value the traditional hotels and resorts do not. A large family can share a home rather than staying in multiple hotel rooms and can dine together in comfort and privacy.
So what should you ask the property manager or owner when considering renting their property?
1) What is the minimum number of nights I have to reserve? Typically, there are minimum stays, which can be anywhere from a few days to an entire week (or more during the holidays). Keep in mind this a rule that can be bent depending on how slow things are. It never hurts to ask!
2) What are the sleeping arrangements? Look at numbers of bedrooms and configuration of beds. Are there sofa beds or rollaways available? Some homes have cribs and rollaways with the home, or they can usually be rented from the management company. Does the bedroom have an ensuite or shared bath? Are linens provided?
3) What is the exact location of the home? With sophisticated mapping tools a click away, you can look at exactly where the property is located. Get the specific address and ask how far it is from the beach, ski slopes, amusement parks, etc. For our clients here in Breckenridge, some may want a vacation rental as close to the ski lifts as possible while others want to be away from all the noise and activity. Consider that while you might see the beach and the house in the same picture, it may require dodging road traffic in order to get there. Also ask about proximity to main thoroughfares if you’re sensitive to traffic noise. This is the type of thing that’s generally overlooked by an owner used to the area and who might not think to tell you about it.
4) What are the home amenities and layout? If you plan on cooking, get an idea of what kitchen appliances are available. Like a good blender for margaritas, perhaps? Are beach towels and chairs included? Golf cart? DVD player? Satellite/Cable TV? Internet access/Wi-Fi? Firewood? Is the home suitable for children? Are there lots of stairs? Is the home wheelchair accessible?
5) What is the damage deposit? Unlike hotels, most home owners require a damage deposit. When you get into high end luxury homes with expensive furnishings, the deposit can be significant, so make sure you have a clear understanding of your responsibilities and follow the rules to ensure you get back your entire deposit. The rule of thumb is if you treat their home like it was yours, you won’t have any damage deposit disputes.
6) How often is maid service scheduled? This one seems to be a biggie, as people are often used to getting housekeeping service every day when they stay in a hotel or on a cruise ship. In general, there is no service from day to day unless specifically requested, for which extra fees will be assessed.
7) What optional services are available? Is there baby sitting? A private chef? Grocery shopping? And as mentioned above, daily maid service?
Can we bring our dog? Again this varies greatly. Some owners are pet lovers and welcome families with pets. Just figure on paying an extra pet deposit if they do allow pets.
These are some of the most important questions to get answered before you make the commitment to rent the vacation home or villa, and the answers should minimize any major surprises upon arriving or checking out. Have a great trip!
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