Rent a professionally managed vacation rental to ensure you’ll get consistent hospitality services and quality assurance standards, as well as professionally cleaned and managed homes, ongoing & objective inspections and concierge type services that provide destination expert advice.
Request and evaluate past guest reviews, testimonials and references, like those listed on Flipkey.com.
Just as consumers inquire about bedding types with hotels, make sure to do the same for vacation rentals, especially for multiple bedroom requests (make sure bedding matches your group’s needs – whether two twins, three queens, one king etc.).
If maid service is only included once a week from your management company and you prefer daily service, you usually can pay an additional daily nominal fee which, when added to the rate, is still less than a traditional hotel room alternative.
If driving on vacation, bring a care package with some food and beverage items you enjoy at home and may not be able to find or wish to pay for in bulk at a local supermarket (i.e.: spices / coffee / wine / condiments).
Check to see if there is an accessible customer service number for 24 / 7 emergency needs and after hour requests.
Inquire about the privacy of your rental, if desired, as well as the type of community it’s located within (gated, nearby to golf courses, beaches, etc.).
Look for third-party endorsements on the websites of rental management companies, including approval from AAA, as well as membership in industry associations like the Vacation Rental Managers Association, Better Business Bureau (BBB) and local property management groups.
Rather than spending hard-earned vacation dollars on a full restaurant breakfast every morning, stock up from the local supermarket on your favorite cereal, snacks, eggs, or pancake mix.
Traveling during low season, as with any accommodations, can save you big money.
Find out if your vacation rental company has partnerships with any local vendors, attractions, etc., and whether or not they offer discounts or recommendations for area services, including dining, shopping, local activities, transportation and more.
Inquire about whether or not a security deposit is required to reserve your vacation rental, when it’s returned, and when it’s due.
Before your trip, confirm what amenities are included in the rental home to assist you in planning and packing more efficiently. For example, will the home include linens, towels, any kitchen equipment, pool toys, DVD players, video game stations, computers, wireless Internet, or other recreational features?
If planning to bring a pet, check with your management company for any applicable fees, breed restrictions, and any specials or pet welcome packets.
Some management companies provide concierge-type services that allow guests to utilize the services of local partners, including grocery shopping and delivery, personal chefs, in-home massages and spa treatments, and more.
