Drive the Price Down by Negotiating!

When you rent a motel room, generally the person behind the counter does not have the ability to negotiate the price. Nor do you really feel like trying to get a few dollars knocked off after a long road trip. It could be late at night and it is simply more of a nuisance than beneficial since you are likely dealing with large corporations.

The great thing about vacation rental homes is that they are almost always privately owned. The owners may have lived there and have a desire to move back one day. They might have just decided to keep it because it is paid for and they would like to visit from time to time. However, when people own something privately they have the ability to really make a decision on what price they are going to charge. Obviously, paying for electricity and water bills is something they are concerned with so you will definitely not be getting it for free. However, almost all of them will work with you on the price.

What I tend to do is go find two vacation rental homes that I really do legitimately like. I will then make them compete for my business. I will call the first one, ask for a price. I will then call the second one and ask them the same question. If the second one is higher, I start my negotiation right then. I tell them upfront and honestly that I am looking at another vacation rental home to rent, and they are “x” amount of dollars cheaper. Tell them that you would like see if they could beat that price so that it is more affordable. In almost all cases they will come down on their price for you. Do this a few times to get the lowest price possible. It may be a nuisance for them as well, but if they want your business, they will work with you.

Just keep in mind, that all prices are negotiable anywhere that you go. But these privately owned vacation rental homes really give you the opportunity to negotiate directly with the owners who want your business!