how do deposits work for WH?

[smk09]

hi everyone,

I'm looking into renting windsor hills in september and am looking at various rental websites. Some state deposit amounts, some don't, and it's not clear whether some are refundable and others are not.

Can anyone share what their experiences are in terms of fees, deposits, extra charges, etc while renting at WH? it seems that a lot of the base rates are competitive, so I'm just trying to watch out for all the add-ons. Thanks!

 

[sympatico]

What each owner requires differs. When renting directly from an owner you usually have to reserve your dates by putting down a deposit of about 20% of the total cost and then from 6 - 10 weeks prior to your dates you pay the remainder of the total cost which will include taxes and pool heat if you've asked for it. Cleaning fees are included in the price of stays longer than a week but this also varies by owner. A security deposit may also be required at the time of your final payment. The security deposit can be in the form of just a credit card hold or actual money. This is returned to you from a couple of weeks till a month after your vacation if there is no damage.
When you ask for a price tell them that you want all fees, taxes and pool heat included (since you're going in Sept. you probably won't need the pool heat.)
If you reserved a home less than 8 weeks prior to going then you'll have to pay the total amount when you reserve.
Cancellation policies vary also. Sometimes it's just your deposit you lose if you cancel a few months out or the total cost if it's within 30 days of your date. We usually get cancellation insurance through insuremytrip.com or some other company just in case there's an emergency.
Check the owner's terms and conditions for their policy.
If you rent from a company then they may have different policies, we usually rent directly from an owner.

 

[smk09]

Thanks so much for answering my questions and for the tips! I'm sure this is a "duh" topic for many dis veterans, but for a newbie just starting on research it can all get intimidating.

Thanks again!