Vacation rentals

[Tokyo Slim]

I'm just sort of starting to look at vacation rentals. What are some things to look out for, or any other advice? Any particularly good or heinous experiences? Are there any good websites anyone would recommend to search them out?

 

[Tokyo Slim]

My last few threads are generating absolutely zero feedback. Is it me?

I find it hard to believe that nobody has ever rented a house or condo instead of staying at a hotel.

 

[NorCal]

I don't have a ton of experience but I would say just use common sense. Google the name of the owner and the name of the spot you are renting. Pay with a credit card as they have better consumer protection. Try to get the owner or a rep on the phone at least once to make sure they are real and you can contact them if need be. Make sure there is a way to deal with any problems that might arise. Trust your gut, if they sound sketchy over the phone move on.

I'd advise paying more per square foot and going smaller and nicer.
Where are you going?
Often moving a little away form the "prime" destination (beach, quaint town square, lake, and so on) can not only save you a lot of money but can land you a nicer spot, particularly if you're not crazy about the typical tourist crap.

Here are a few sites to check out:
http://www.airbnb.com/
http://www.vacationhomerentals.com/
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/11/tr...sOne.html?_r=1
http://www.homeaway.com/
http://www.vacationhomezone.com/
http://www.vrbo.com/

 

[Rambo]

Good thread Slim. I was casually looking into this myself as it seems a good way to save some money over a hotel.

How long of a stay are you looking into?

 

[hboogz]

FWIW, I know a few people who've had good experiences using www.vrbo.com.

 

[whiteslashasian]

Originally Posted by hboogz

FWIW, I know a few people who've had good experiences using www.vrbo.com.

+1

I've stayed at houses that were rented through vrbo and everything seemed fine. If I were to look for a place to rent for a vacation that would be the first stop.

 

[Tokyo Slim]

Going to Tokyo for two weeks in Feb. Looking to get something w slightly more sq ft than any of the hotel rooms I can afford, as I might have company.

 

[Dragon]

I don't think there is a specific website that is better. Just make sure you check as much as possible, and don't forget to negotiate. If their calendar is open, there is no reason for them to pass up on a reasonable offer.

Also, don't forget to verify the little stuff like internet connection with the owners. If it's not working when you arrive, it may take days to get online.

 

[hboogz]

Originally Posted by Tokyo Slim

Going to Tokyo for two weeks in Feb. Looking to get something w slightly more sq ft than any of the hotel rooms I can afford, as I might have company.


Definitely curious to know what you end up getting...I didn't even look up a vacation rental since i'm only staying in Tokyo for 5 days but i might look into it...

 

[Tokyo Slim]

Originally Posted by hboogz

Definitely curious to know what you end up getting...I didn't even look up a vacation rental since i'm only staying in Tokyo for 5 days but i might look into it...

I love my regular place, its hard to beat English speaking staff and a private, locking room for 2500 yen a night. But maybe its not somewhere you take a girl.