Questions to ask before renting??

[aj2hall]

We're looking at renting a condo for the 5 of us for 12 nights in Feb/ March 2014. We're looking at Emerald Isle, Windsor Hills, Reunion Resort and Bonnet Creek. Any suggestions for important questions to ask to help us decide? Here's my list so far

Is pool heat included and if not, what are the fees?
Also, do you have a BBQ grill?
What kind of mattresses are on the beds? Are they pillow top? Sorry to sound picky, but with a 12 night stay and busy days at Disney, a good nights sleep on a comfortable bed is important.
Finally, is the thermostat adjustable? I know some owners set controls on it like the air can't be turned below 75 degrees etc.

Questions to ask owners after we make our decision
Do you provide pool/ beach towels?
What household items are provided upon arrival? (Dish soap, paper towels, toilet paper etc)

Thank you for any help!

 

[Itinkso]

Also ask if the rental unit is pet-free.

Some owners waive the cleaning fee if you stay a minimum number of nights - so it would be good to ask that.

 

[ParkHopperFan]

Questions..

1.). Are your HOA dues current? You dont want to be excluded from the resort amenities.

2.). Is your property manager available after hours in the event that a problem arises?

Having prepared questions is a great idea, however, if you're looking at booking for February or March, you might want to get on it. Many of the nicer properties with the amenities you're looking for are already booked or are booking up quickly.

Good luck!

 

[aj2hall]

great questions. thank you! we just booked our flights, so this is my next step. just a little overwhelming looking at all of the options. thank you for your help.

 

[TyWebb]

This is a list I used pretty frequently. I have rented on VRBO 15 - 20 times. I have had only two bad experiences with VRBO and both dealt with cleaning crews that didn't get their work done when they were supposed to.

Are you the actual owner of this property? I prefer to use owner/managed properties)
Who is your local management company?
How recent are the photos listed on VRBO?
Have there been any significant upgrades or changes since these pictures or any planned before our stay?
Are the pool and hot tub are regularly serviced and in good working order?
Pool heat is available if needed? Cost for heat?
Does the unit have a spa or a heated hot tub?
A gas grill is available at no extra charge and would be ready for use on arrival?
Internet service is available in the home and included in the price?
Cable/Satellite tv is throughout the house?
Does the kitchen have any items that get left from guest to guest like salt, pepper, seasonings, coffee filters, etc?
Besides VRBO, is this villa listed on any other websites?
Is there anything special that sets your property apart from others in the area? (Recent upgrades, better options in the home, new items, better management company)