Best time to book offsite rental

[akl432]

I am planning a trip to WDW for Jan 16-27, 2014. These dates fall over MLK weekend.

Is it important to book as far as possible in advance? Should I make sure to book something now, or can I take my time over the next several months to do research and comparison shop locations and prices?

I wasn't sure how long I can safely wait and still have a choice of the best prices and locations, but at the same, I don't want to rush into a hasty decision, either.

Do prices typically drop as you get closer to your dates, or are the best rates offered earliest, because owners want to book their units as early as possible?

Thanks!!

 

[Sprockie]

In my experience, if you have a specific date in mind, and you find one you like and like the price, and their terms, book it. I usually book rentals well in advance.
Some owners respond with a fair price right from the start - those are the ones I really look at. Some give you a price that's high, maybe hoping they'll get the higher prices. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush is my feeling. What annoys me is when I ask for a quote, and they just direct me to their webite - with no personalized email.
I guess you just have to go with the one you feel comfortable with all around and the one that provides you with good, clear, timely communication.
We are travelling February 2014- and will be there for the Daytona 500, which I thought might be a popular time. I booked ours about 3 months ago.

 

[mguedes]

I would not wait too much. I got reasonable rates when I booked in April for my trip in December.

One thing to keep in mind is that if you decide to book later, you might get homes that nobody wanted at first.

 

[akl432]

Thanks - great points! I am going to go ahead and try to finalize my decision this week and book it!

 

[MinnieLovesMickey12]

It shouldn't take months to price shop for off site houses. you can actually do most of the research in one afternoon over a few hours time. I would book it as soon as you find one you like. Any holiday time is going to be busier and harder to book what you want.

When I researched off site homes I looked at VRBO, Homeaway and Villa Direct. I found the best prices through Villa Direct for the same neighborhoods the other sites have. Not sure why Villa was cheaper. But we found a 4 bedroom house with a gameroom and a pool for $89 a night plus taxes and fees.

 

[akl432]

Thanks so much for your responses. I'm going to try to make my final decision this weekend. I keep stressing myself out because I want to find the best house at the best location for the best price...I need to stop being so obsessive! It's hard for a perfectionist, though!

Appreciate all the help!