? about renting homes

[The Moonk's Mom]

My BFF wants to take her kids on a trip this year, most likely the week after Christmas. She is taking her kids with another couple and they are interested in renting a home to save some money. I have never rented off property before, so I don't have a lot of info for her.

From those in the know, what kind of things should she make sure of in advance before renting...like cleaning fees and such. And since it is December, will she need to ask about the pool being heated?

TIA!!!

 

[isla bonita]

It might be a bit more expensive she is going on a holiday week.

 

[The Moonk's Mom]

Well, it is two famalies with kids, so the cost does work out cheaper for them to stay off site still. They plan on cooking all meals minus one a day that they will eat in the park CS.

 

[JANNYANS]

She needs to ask for a fully inclusive price -taxes cleaning pool and/or spa heating .Then check what the deposit is and when this would be due ,the amount of the security deposit and when the security will be returned

 

[mtmbyck]

If you log into VRBO.com (vacation rental by owners) it is quite clear on pricing which includes or does not include cleaning, pool heat, etc. If it is a private home, there most likely will not be house cleaning. We have rented 7 times and have never had this - it's your house for the week. When you check out you have to strip the beds, empty the garbages, clear the cupboards of food and empty the fridge. If you do not clean up as per the the instructions (usually posted in the home on first day) you will be charged extra.

There will be a pool person who comes and cleans the pool and checks it twice a week at least. There will also be lawn care folks who stop in once a week. Honestly, she'll get the best deals negotiating a rate now rather than waiting while supply and emand and still good.

If they are doing Disney, you need to be cautious of where you rent - many homes say they are 10 minutes fromt he park, but in reality they are 20-25 as you have to navigate down Hwy 27 or I92 in traffic.......go with homes that say they can see the fireworks or say 5 minutes - Indian Oaks, Formosa Gardens, Emerald Island, Windsor Hills or WIndsor Palms......

Most homes require 1/2 of the money up front - then you pay the other half 60-90 days before your visit. Your deal is with the owner in many cases so you can barter a bit (ask them to throw in the pool heat, etc). I have never rented a home at Christmas so I am not sure how competitive it will be - I would think many hoe owners use the home themselves during this season???

You should start looking now and for sure book before June (6 months out) for best selection.

Good luck and PM me if you have any other questions.

 

[BellyBaby]

All of this is excellent advice - but I have to say don't count on a discount for the busiest week of the year (just check out disney's pricing list - week after xmas is the most expensive time of the year). I can't see any owner's cutting their rate for the most coveted time. They have lots of time for people to pay full price.

You can also ask to see their rental agreement.