Monday, October 20, 2014

The Do's And Don'ts Of Booking A Vacation Rental Out-Of-Season

In this economy, it certainly makes sense if you choose to go on a vacation after summer. You'll spend less, avoid the crowd and take advantage of every discount opportunity offered during off the peak season. Renting a condo or a house is another cost saving measure you can take advantage of during your fall vacation. Whether you're travelling alone, with a spouse or a group of friends, vacation rentals are way cheaper than most hotels. But not so fast, consider the tips below when you opt for a vacation rental in order to protect yourself as a renter.

Do find a location with many vacation rentals

One of the best ways to spend less on a vacation rental is to choose an area where there are a lot of rentals because it's likely that the cost will be very competitive. If you are yet to decide on where you'll be heading to on your vacation, consider narrowing down your list of options based on destinations which are popular for vacation rentals.

Don't send money to a property owner before signing a contract

One big mistake made by many vacationers is sending money to book a vacation home without signing any paperwork. Most vacation rentals are provided by real estate agents so you need to take the necessary precautions before wiring any money. Verify their details, ask for references and assess the rental company's track record before making any payments.

Do check the contract to know what's included in the vacation rental

Don't think that you strike a good deal by getting a vacation rental at half price. It could be that there are hidden surcharges which you'll have to pay for later on. To avoid these kinds of surprises, ask whether everything is included in the package. Check if your contract indicates that utilities like internet, electricity and gas are included in your rental.

Don't choose a vacation rental without comparison shopping

Comparison shopping is always important when planning a trip because it helps you to find the best deals available. First, determine your accommodation budget so that you know the kind of rentals you'll be looking at. Secondly, find an agent who is well versed with vacation rentals in that area. You can get expert recommendation from an agent and be able to save more. Third, do your own online research on popular sites that list vacation rentals in your area to know their average cost. With this information, you'll be in a position to find a cheaper vacation rental during off peak season.

Do hire an experienced travel agent

Only few people can manage to plan a trip without enlisting the services of an experienced agent. Make sure you get an agent especially if you are new to area where you'll be visiting. An experienced agent will not only help you to narrow down your list of rentals but he/she can provide useful advice that will protect you and ensure you get the most from your trip.

Ochlockonee Bay Realty is pleased to offer a wide variety of Alligator Point vacation rentals. We also offer gulf-front beach home rentals, bayfront vacation rentals and riverfront vacation rentals. http://alligatorpointbeachrentals.com

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