by 2 Cylivers
The first thing to know about vacation rentals is that they are different from timeshare properties. Perhaps you are already aware.
A vacation rental is a property, often a well-furnished condominium, rented out by a tourist while holidaying. The concept is really popular in Europe and in Canada and is gaining ground in the States.
A vacation rental, as the name explains, is a townhouse or family-style home which offers the visitor all possible amenities that he may want or need to enjoy his vacation. It comes with bedrooms and bathrooms, maybe even private hot tubs, separate living areas, a fully-equipped kitchen, home appliances like a washer and dryer, a refrigerator, television sets, maybe even a DVD player, beach equipment, a fireplace and more.
The timeshare property, on the other hand, is a property that you own for a specified period of time along with other owners. Each owner has a stake in the property and therefore, that much of a responsibility. Timeshare property owners can, in turn, rent out their properties for a certain period of time. The vacation rental is, however, not up for sale to the guest; it is merely lent out to the guest.
Now, coming to the disadvantages of vacation rentals, let us just say that the first and most glaring negative is that you have to communicate directly to the property owner; you may know nothing about the property or about its functioning; about its flaws and its problems unless you have made your first visit; and you may have to take the owner’s word for it.
Some vacation rentals are managed by separate companies, who run them professionally and may have higher levels of accountability. Yet, these are not really like hotels and may offer a different set of services altogether.
Finally, it is up to you to take the call. Many believe that the advantages of renting out a vacation home far outweigh the negatives. With a little bit of cautious research, you could find yourself that perfect vacation home to enliven up your precious holiday!
