You’ve found the perfect vacation rental and now you’re ready to book it. Overall, the process should be easy. Hopefully, the owner has attached a calendar showing the property’s availability. Most will do this as it makes no sense to pursue a vacation rental property if it’s not available at the time you want to travel.
If you’ve never
physically seen the property, you might be nervous about booking it. Whether
it’s several hundred dollars a week or several thousand, you want proof that
you’re getting your money’s worth. Unfortunately, you won’t get your “proof”
until you actually put the key in the door and open it. But before you change
your mind and book a room at a major hotel chain, just slow down and do your
research. When reserving a vacation rental, you should go through the same
steps as you would before making any type of major purchase. And the beauty of
the Internet is that you have all the information you need, right at your
fingertips.
Begin by analysing
the information that the owner has put together. You’ll be able to tell just
from reading the description whether the vacation rental property is one you’d
consider. Oftentimes vacation rental owners include pictures of various parts
of the property to give you a better idea of what you can expect so look
closely. Also gather information about the property’s location then use the
Internet to research the location itself.
Once you’re
satisfied with your selection, contact the property owner using the information
provided. Be sure you discuss beforehand all costs, including the down payment,
security deposit, and cleaning fee. Inquire about the cancellation policy too,
just in case. If you’re not satisfied after this discussion, repeat the above
steps to search for another vacation rental.
When you’re ready
to strike a deal, the vacation rental property owner will provide you with
payment instructions. Get everything in writing and follow the instructions
you’re given precisely. That way, you’ll avoid unpleasant surprises upon your
arrival.
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