Before you can find a hotel accommodation for your next vacation, why not open up your mind to the now, more commonly sought after alternative, of renting out a vacation home while on holiday.
There are several advantages to renting a vacation home as opposed to staying at a hotel. The advantages include cost effectiveness, convenience, extremely luxurious accommodation, privacy; more space etc. – the list of advantages can be quite long. So, why not try it out and confirm it all for yourself, you may wonder why you never tried it before.
Several online sources and agents give the opportunity to people looking for that perfect vacation home for the perfect vacation spot. Below are some tips that can help you find the most suitable vacation home when on your next vacation trip.
- Figure out what your basic requirements will be, before you start the search
Simply make a list of the things that you will need that will make your vacation stay as comfortable as possible. For example, if you have four children, it will probably suit you to have at least 3-5 bedrooms in the vacation rental of your choice.
Other indulgences and basic necessities important for your vacation may include a laundry service, a swimming pool, outdoor space, proximity to transport, proximity to a beach, etc.
Once you have a list of things that you cannot do without on your vacation, it will be easier to narrow down what is available to you.
- Figure out your budget
It almost goes without saying that determining the limits of what you are willing to spend on your vacation is vital. Knowing your budget for all the different aspects of your vacation including accommodation, fun activities, shopping, meals and dining, transportation etc. will help you figure out the limits, savings or adjustments that you can make so as to maximize on enjoying your vacation.
You might find that getting a more luxurious condo may be more affordable because it meets all your basic requirements and cuts the cost of your vacation budget items through a single all inclusive cost.
- Do a general online search
Start with a general online search for a rental in the area where you intend to take your vacation. For example, if you want to take a vacation trip to Scottsdale, Arizona, simply make a web search for, ‘Scottsdale Condos’.
You could also go to sites that have listings for furnished or serviced apartment buildings in order to have a look and get a feel of what is available, based on your basic requirements.
- Narrow down your online search by looking for local listings
More often than not, the best apartments or condos that you can find in a particular location will not have a website or be under the management of a realtor. This means that you have to be a bit more creative if you want to get that ‘oyster’ of a vacation rental, so to speak.
For example, search for advertisements in local classifieds found in local newspapers, or search for websites that aggregate local rental listings.
- Use major, well known and reputable online property agents and realtors
If it is your first time in a certain vacation locale, it may be a good idea to make a safer bet by using the services of a well-known and reputable realtor to help you find a suitable vacation rental.
With the world becoming a global village, it is not impossible to find someone from your country who lives in your vacation destination that can help you find either a reputable realtor and especially one that caters to the needs of visitors from a particular geographical location where you come from.
- Search according to your interests, occupation or favorite activities
Customize your search by looking for properties online that host people with similar passion or common interests. For example, if you are in the army, you might find that it is easier for you to find a vacation rental from someone in the army who has a home in your vacation destination.
The case is the same if for example you have special needs such as ramps for your wheelchair or spacious elevators to take you up and down buildings etc.
People with similar interests usually find that they are sensitive to each other’s needs and interests to a certain extent and they will readily advertise their space based on these interests.
- Use social media, email, Skype calls or phone calls to make further inquiries about the vacation rental
Once you have narrowed down on the property that you will most likely use as your vacation rental, get in contact with the property owner or property manager to get a feel of the person or people that you will be dealing with.
Author bio
David Kuttner is a photographer, writer, and a father. When he’s not busy writing, he’s most likely spending time with his wife and their two mischievous dogs: Lily and Bart. Visit his blog for more information.
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