Vacation Home Rental

[lilsonicfan]

I must "third" the opinion given by Elle/Karenvicki. I didn't know a lot when I first started doing research, but it was fantastic at www.orlandovillas.com to be able to contact owners directly. They also have an option for homeowners to have their house verified -which simply means that the owners have shown proof that they own the home. The homeowners of our villa have been incredibly helpful, and they have of course also provided us with the name of the management company they use to help maintain their house. I'm sure that www.vrbo.com runs on many of the same principles, as do many other sites.

I don't think you should limit your search to particular companies. I also know that being accredited by a particular organization doesn't necessarily stand up. Everyone is "bound by a code of ethics" - it's called Florida state law! Yes I know, you'll still get the occasional rogue who tries to run off with your money. But smart consumers do their research. In the end, it's your money and you have to spend it wisely!

 

[SeattleMark]

Hi,

I can strongly recommend VillaDirect.com . We've rented from them multiple times and are using them again in July. They are very professional, were very responsive to any problems (ie: They call on your first day there to see if everything is okay with the house. I casually mentioned that the kitchen clock didn't work and within an hour they were there to replace the batteries!) To me, the advantage of renting through a reputable company is obvious, you have protection, someone to take care of you, send driving directions, etc. I've seen some of the owner-rented houses that look great on the web site, but have bug problems, maintenance problems, etc. VillaDirect keeps ALL of it's houses in tip-top shape.

We usually rent the Sunshine Bay Villa in Oak Island cove. It's no more than 3 minutes from Disney, right near a grocery store and the tons of restaurants and souvenir shops of International Drive. It's a brand new 4 bedroom home, beautifully furnished, big screeen tv, private pool (with spa) that overlooks a nature area, pool toys and video games for the kids, Disney and Marvel Comics decorated kids bedrooms, large soaking tub in one of the two master bedroom/baths, etc, etc. Elegantly furnished while still being very, very comfortable. Highly recommended.

I've also heard very good things about AllStar Vacation Homes . They're located in that shooping center that has the grocery store near Oak Island Cove. I've had very good service from them as well, comparing rates with VillaDriect. VillaDirect usually has better prices (ie: we get our Sunshine Bay Villa for $120/night with our previous renter discount. Normal rate is $132).

So that's it. It is SO much less stressful to stay in a home rather than a cramped hotel room with kids. It's also MUCH cheaper because we can buy our own food, cook out on the grill, etc.

If you have any other questions, feel free to e-mail me!

Mark