Newcomers are likely to be surprised at the range and variety of short term properties available in the Southport area. Rental homes are gaining in popularity among vacationers, and visitors will find that the sheer number of vacation homes available allows them to find an ideal getaway to suit their Southport group, from peaceful condos to massive event homes with several bedrooms.
Virtually all rental properties in Southport are privately owned and many are represented by established local rental management companies. Rental owners often select management companies to manage marketing and advertising, house cleaning and routine maintenance.
Here are some ideas and suggestions to help you navigate the vacation rental search and reservation process.
Before you start to book "OCEANFRONT 2 Bedroom/2 full bath condo with pool!", review our brief collection of factors to consider.
Like many renowned destinations, In Southport the best vacation rentals are booked early. For the best selection, start your planning and search 6-12 months in advance of your vacation. Holiday gatherings are a popular time for groups to plan their Summer escapes..
Agreement can often be complicated between family, but the moment this complicated part is finished everything will start to slide in place.
Take a head count. How many beds and bedrooms will you be needing? Be aware that many homes advertise maximum guest capacity, which oftentimes includes sofa beds in the family room. You'll need to determine what is acceptable for your company. Most rental listings will summarize each of the unit's specific bedrooms and mattresses.
Does the chosen rental home suit your budget during that choice Summer week? If multiple groups or loved ones are sharing the cost, always make sure each group understands their responsibilities and has agreed to a maximum they are prepared to contribute. A single individual in your group will need to be given the task of gathering contributions and accepting responsibility for the whole rental payment at time of reservation.
What home features is the group searching for? Do you just want a home with a pool, jacuzzi or beach volleyball court? Would you like to be far from the crowds, or near a city setting? Are extras like beach chairs, grills, umbrellas, carts or coolers at your disposal and included with your rental rate? Make a list of "needs and preferences" from your group to help filter your search to the perfect home.
Often times the senior generation has challenges with stairways. Be sure to remember and ask about wheelchair entry, pool lifts and special equipment needs..
Are you or other members of the gang travelling with a family pet? While a number of rental homes allow dogs, rules and fees fluctuate per property. Many constraints could eliminate a prospective rental property. Read your agreement carefully! Additional fees or costs may be applied to your agreement. Ask questions *prior to* you book!
Many websites exist to match vacationers with rental home owners.. Besides Homeaway, VRBO and Tripadvisor, we advise searching Google for "Southport local vacation rentals" for local vacation rental management companies. Local agencies often times have an exclusive assortment of vacation homes daily and weekly.
Re-read the description to be certain the vacation rental has everything you need. If lacking, the vacation rental management company may know of similar properties that suit your preferences and budget..
Although not true for all properties, many rental owners and property managers will negotiate rates. If they are unwilling to budge on a highly-desirable week, try asking for an additional night. Your greatest opportunity for a lower rate will be switching to an off-season week.
Read the complete contract and make sure you understand who is liable for:
In addition to the standard rate, vacationers will have to pay state taxes when booking "OCEANFRONT 2 Bedroom/2 full bath condo with pool!", in addition to any other fees that may be required depending on their circumstances, including an animal fee, early check-in or late check-out fee, or a pool heating fee for private swimming pool usage during the autumn or spring months.
Ensure that you understand the cancellation policy before booking. You will probably be offered trip insurance. Trip insurance defends the renter against emergency situations and weather events, It offers peace of mind should tragedy strike.
When everything seems correct, it's finally time for you to sign a rental agreement. You will likely need to submit a security deposit at time of booking.
Put the property manager's contact information into your smart phone and wallet for convenient access to answers during your visit.
Congrats! All that is left is enjoying your visit!
Hold a debrief with the members of your group. How did they like the rental choice? If everything was amazing, next year's vacation planning is going to be easy. If the rental home wasn't ideal, and you will better understand how to filter your search for the next time.
