You may be in denial that the holiday season is fast approaching, but the fact remains that winter vacation planning is well underway. Vacation home rentals are a great way to enjoy a truly relaxing, rewarding and budget-friendly family vacation. Vacation homes give you the room to relax after a long day and provide unique and often luxurious amenities. For some, these homes are a vacation unto themselves.
We understand that finding the right vacation home can be daunting. There are many desirable properties to choose from, but how should you go about finding the right fit for your specific needs?
Don’t panic – it’s a manageable process. Central Coast Management Association has put together a list of recommendations to get you started:
-
Start with a wish list of your must-haves. Ocean views? Kid friendly? Large kitchen? A hot tub on-site? Organize a brainstorm session with your family or travel companions to get those wishes on paper. That way you’ll have a list of criteria that will help you decide if a vacation rental you come across is a good fit for you.
-
Remember that location is key. Many vacation home rentals are just minutes away from your favorite sightseeing spots, attractions, golf courses, restaurants, shopping centers and other vacation area hot spots. Strategize what off-site activities you want to do, and plan accordingly. Don’t just look at a home’s features; look at a map.
-
Consider renting from a professional management company. When using a management company, guests enjoy additional benefits and services that are not typically offered by single homeowners, including a 24-hour customer service contact, concierge services, housekeeping, partnerships with local vendors, and often the ability to search and reserve a home securely online. Homeowners are often away form their properties for long periods of time, and management companies ensure consistent quality in accommodations.
-
Don’t forget that it might be an El Niño year. You may want to consider finding a home that will offer more than just four walls and a TV. How about a large fireplace, cozy furniture, a game room with pool or ping pong, or a great room with a table for game night gatherings? Rain doesn’t have to ruin your vacation, as long as you plan it right.