Some people are shocked to discover how many properties are located in their area of interest. Rental homes are gaining in popularity among vacationers, and visitors will find that the sheer number of vacation rentals available makes it possible to find an optimum getaway to suit their Southport family, from relaxing condominiums to larger event homes with several bedrooms.
Rentals are often owner operated or managed by property management companies. For property owners not directly involved with the management of their vacation home, management companies are instrumental in assisting vacationers with reserving, check-in, house cleaning, and any repairs and maintenance problems that may occur.
Below are some tips and tactics to help you navigate the rental home search and booking process.
Do you believe "Wireless internet, oceanfront porch and deck with walkway to beach." is the best rental property for your next trip? Read through this checklist to ensure it fits your needs.
Southport rental homes book months (and up to a year) in advance. Reserving your vacation property 6-12 months before your travel dates is recommended, when possible. Christmas, Thanksgiving and New Years are excellent times to find and book your vacation rental home..
Agreement can be tough between members of the family, but as soon as this complicated part is complete everything will begin to drop in place.
Determine who is attending the vacation, and how many/what kind of bedroom configuration you'll need. Consider that most properties list maximum guest capacity, which oftentimes includes sofa beds in the living room. It is important to figure out what is acceptable for your group. Generally rental home listings will describe each of the unit's specific bedrooms and mattress sizes.
Most rental properties are presented with a price range. Confirm the cost for your selected stay. It may be at the top end of the range. Make sure you get cost-sharing commitments from loved ones well before reserving an expensive rental. In most cases, a single person in the group will be liable for making the whole reservation and collecting each family member's share.
What amenities is your group searching for? Are you looking for a vacation property with outside dining area? Would you like to be away from it all, or near civilization? Are extras like beach chairs, barbecue grills, umbrellas, carts or coolers at your disposal and included with your rental home rate? Create a list of priority amenities to guide filter your search.
Occasionally the elder generation has challenges with stairways. Make sure you remember and ask about wheelchair access, pool lifts and special equipment requirements..
Be sure to include your companion! Animals are welcome at many vacation homes, but policies can vary. Read your agreement carefully! Additional charges may apply when animals are added. Ask questions *before* you book!
. In combination with Homeaway, VRBO and Tripadvisor, we suggest searching Google for "Southport local rental homes" for local rental home management companies. Besides having exclusive rental properties, local companies offer you top-notch service..
Re-read the description to make sure the property has everything that you need. If it is lacking, the property management company might know of very similar homes that better suit your wishes and budget..
Although not true for all rental properties, many property owners and property managers will make a deal on rates. If the rate isn't negotiable, the number of nights may be. Off-peak weeks will likely be negotiable more often than peak-season..
You should know which services are included:
In addition to the normal price, visitors will have to pay state taxes when booking "Wireless internet, oceanfront porch and deck with walkway to beach.", as well as any other fees which might be required depending on their circumstances, including a dog charge, early check-in or later check-out fee, or a pool heater fee for private swimming pool usage during the autumn or spring months.
Ensure that you understand the cancellation policy prior to reserving. You'll likely be offered trip insurance. Trip insurance, which normally costs between 1% - 5% of your standard rental price, can provide guests with reimbursement of their vacation costs (and subsequent vacation property costs) for any days missed resulting from personal health emergencies or weather, in addition to hurricane evacuation costs, such as a unforeseen hotel stay or extra gas.
When everything seems right, it's finally time for you to sign a rental agreement. You'll likely be asked to submit a security deposit at time of booking.
Put the property manager's contact info into your smart phone and wallet for quick access to answers during your trip.
Congrats! All that is left is enjoying your vacation!
Did they enjoy their vacation? If everything was outstanding, next year's family vacation planning will be relatively easy. Maybe the property wasn't perfect, and you will better know how to refine your search for the next trip.
