Vacation Rental Market – its Pluses vs. Minuses

The vacation rentals market has recently seen an influx of unfaithful and dishonest property owners, but fear not we will help guide you through with some helpful tips. As within every business transaction there must be some sort of trust established between the parties doing business.  Wither or not it’s a face to face transaction or its an internet transaction the purchaser of the goods or service must have some kind of trust in the product he is purchasing and in the same regard the seller must have faith that the purchaser is going to pay in a timely manner. This can be easily applied to the vacation renter versus the owner model.  From the renters perspective he must ensure he is getting what he paid for. From the owner’s perspective, he wants to make sure his property remains in the condition he initially delivered in, and that the renter pays all dues in time.  They each have to trust the other, again similar to most business practices. Some help full tips that ensure a smooth transaction:

1.) Ask references – this is a two way street again, the owner should verify with previous owners as to the condition that the renter left the property. The renter should ask to speak with previous renters to ensure he is getting the top quality vacation home.

2.) Payments – for the owner’s setup up a PayPal account (you have protection!!). Renters ask if there are other methods of payments other then certified checks or money orders.  PayPal is very friendly and easy to use also both sellers and buyers have protected rights.

3.) Get Specifics – Check-in and check-out times. Obtain on-site contact information so you communicate on your arrival/departure and various important facts that you should be aware of.

4.) Vacation rentals are just like any real estate, you get what you pay for. That’s being said if it is too good to be true, assume someone has pulled the wool over your eyes.

The following was bought to you with help from Liz Doup from The Seattle Times.