First-timers are often surprised at the number and wide selection of short term properties available in the Southport area. Rental accommodations have gained in popularity with the rise of essential research sites like Tripadvisor and VRBO.
Vacation homes are frequently owner operated or managed by rental management companies. Rental owners often select management companies to manage online advertising, house cleaning and maintenance tasks.
Seasoned Southport vacationers have identified several tips and tricks throughout the years with regards to renting rental properties, however most beginners will be happy to find that several "tips" are in plain sight, if you know how to look.
Before you decide to book "West End Oceanfront - Stunning Views!", read through our brief list of factors to consider.
Southport vacation rentals start booking very early. Booking your rental property 6-12 months before your travel dates is usually recommended, whenever possible. Holiday reunions can be a great time for families to plot their Summer family trips..
Begin by figuring out which specific area of Southport you would like to browse, and the choose dates you'll be vacationing.
Take a head count. How many beds and bedrooms will you be needing? Keep in mind that many homes list maximum guest capacity, which oftentimes includes sofa beds in the living area. You'll need to determine what is acceptable for the group. Specific descriptions of bedrooms and beds are typically available online. Otherwise, email or call the property owner before you book.
Will the chosen rental property fit your budget during that prime Summer week? Make sure that you get cost-sharing commitments from loved ones well before reserving a costly vacation property. Most rental agreements require a single individual to be liable for the full reservation.
What home features is the family looking for? Do you want a rental home with patio dining area? Does the property need to be oceanfront, in the downtown area, or in close proximity to night life? Are extras like beach chairs, barbecue grills, umbrellas, buggies or coolers available and included in your rental property payment? Gather a list of "needs and wants" from your company to help narrow your search to the most appropriate home.
Do some people in your party have specific needs? If wheel chair entry, elevators, pool lifts or other special equipment is necessary, include that into your search. Almost all vacation home listings include a list of amenities.
Remember to include your companion! Animals are welcome at a number of rental properties, but guidelines differ. A number of limitations may eliminate a prospective rental. Ensure that you study agreements and contracts carefully. Fees may apply when pets are included.
A number of websites exist to match visitors with rental home owners.. In combination with Homeaway, VRBO and Tripadvisor, we advise searching Google for "Southport local vacation rentals" for local rental home management companies. In addition to having distinctive properties, local companies offer you top-notch service..
Re-read the description to confirm the home has everything you need. If something is missing, the home management company may know of very similar properties that better suit your preferences and budget..
Some rental home owners will negotiate rates, and some won't. If the rate isn't negotiable, the number of nights may be. Off-peak season offers your greatest opportunity to negotiate a lower rate.
It is advisable to know which services are included:
Be sure that your quote includes all state taxes and fees.
Cancellation policies vary with each property. Many rental home contracts include an option for trip insurance. Trip insurance, which typically costs somewhere between 1% - 5% of your standard rental cost, provides vacationers with reimbursement of their vacation costs (and subsequent vacation property costs) for any days missed as a consequence of personal health related emergencies or weather, and additionally hurricane evacuation expenses, such as a unforeseen motel stay or extra gas.
Once you believe you've identified "the one", begin the reservation process. Do not forget that most rental contracts require a considerable rental down payment and/or security deposit to safeguard the rental home owner.
Put the property manager's contact information into your smartphone and wallet for convenient access to answers during your visit.
Congratulations on booking your rental! You're on the way to a wonderful vacation!
Hold a meeting with the members of your group. Did they feel about the rental? If everything was fantastic, next year's family vacation planning will be simple. If not, you have acquired useful rental search experience that can help with your next search.
