renting from private owner?

[teachingmykids]

This will be the first time I've ever dealt with a private owner for a condo. I've contacted them, they gave me a total and asked for a deposit. They said they don't have a contract, but would be glad to write one up and send it to me. (They live in New Jersey)
I'm leary of just mailing off money, driving to Orlando and hoping it's alright.
Am I being paranoid? What should I do to make sure I've covered all the bases?

Thanks,
~~georgia

 

[Lorix2]

I'm PM'ing you right now about this.

 

[LisaMM]

I've rented from private owners (not in Disney, but other parts of Florida) before and fortunately I've never had a problem. I'm considering doing it at a timeshare rental this year and had some concerns. Two ideas:

First, ask if they have any reference of those who have rented from them before. My guy did not since he just started renting out the unit on his own.

Second, since he didn't have references, he offered to call the resort (in this case the Sheraton Vistana) and authorize me as a guest. Then, I could call the Vistana directly, verify that I was listed for the room, and then mail the owner a check. I think I'm okay with that.

Hope this helps.
--Lisa

 

[Lorix2]

Lisa,

I don't think they'll reserve the unit for you until the full payment is received. THen a guest certificate would be issued in your name and then you call to verify. That was my experience anyway.

 

[tednvon]

Hi Georgia,
We are former owners of a home in the Disney area that we rented "by owner" and I can assure you that 99 percent of the owners are great.
I agree that a reference would be a good idea or ask the owner for the name of the management company that does the cleaning and upkeep. They can also verify that the owner works through them and the condo is an ongoing rental.
If you would like to post or email me the location of the condo or the developement (Emerald Island, Windsor Palms, Sommerset Villas, Laguna Bay, Island Club are few of the more popular ones) I would be happy to tell what I can about the location, the condos, and the prices.....


Hope this helps,

Ted