UKDEB
Moderator Emeritus
- Joined
- Jul 7, 2000
- Messages
- 11,840
Absolutely. I don't think there are rights or wrongs here, just preferences. Weigh up the pros and cons (the arguments have been articulately expressed already) and then make your choice. For us it is to rent privately partly because we don't pay an agent's cut, but mainly because we get to choose the individual home. You do need to take some sensible precautions AND ASK QUESTIONS - here are a few which spring to mind:
<b>Is there a named Management Company?</b> If not, or the owner isn't willing to give details before you part with your money, then don't book with them! Is the company reputable? Do some research. The owners we have booked with for our next trip use Blue Ribbon Villas both as a booking agent and a management company. We have booked directly with the owner at a saving of £340 per week (about $500), but Blue Ribbon will still be on hand to sort out any problems locally.
<b>Do they require payment in full upfront?</b> If so, you don't have to book with them! As Robin says "As a consumer I have the option to protest with my feet". Of course, you have to weigh up whether the saving you make by booking privately warrants paying in advance, but if you object, then book with an owner who doesn't make this stipulation. None of the owners we've booked with has ever asked for payment upfront. We pay a (non-refundable) deposit when we book - usually about 10% - and the rest a few weeks before.
<b>Speak to them</b> Every owner I've booked with has only one or two properties. For them it is not a business; it is a passion. They have been to Florida and WDW and fallen in love with it just the same as you and me. Their homes are their pride and joy. When you speak with them, that passion comes across - you can tell it's genuine. Personally I would uncomfortable booking with a private owner who has a whole string of properties. I admit that this one is a bit 'touchy feely', but I still think it has merit.
<b>Get everything in writing</b> I would be suspicious of anyone who didn't have either a glossy brochure with photos of their villa, or a website with the same information. Get them to mail, or e-mail their terms and conditions including their cancellation policy.
From what has been said, maybe it is a little bit different for us folks visiting from the UK - yes, we have an annual travel insurance policy which would cover us if we were forced to cancel (although not if we simply chose to), but I just wanted to add my thoughts and what works for us.
