How to Book a Vacation Rental

Would your family enjoy a week in a cozy beach cottage? Or is your ideal getaway a condo overlooking the golf course? Start by deciding what you want, whether it's a house, villa, chalet, hotel or cabana.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Plan ahead--up to a year in advance. If you frequently vacation in a particular spot, set time aside to check out the rental market and get a jump on next year's reservations.

2. Find out when the peak rental season is. Save some money by vacationing off-season, but be aware that the weather, and snow or water conditions, may not be as agreeable.

3. Check local classifieds and Web sites frequently to see what's available. Contact the chamber of commerce or a real estate agent for leads listing available rentals.

4. Tour the properties for a firsthand look. If you can't go in person, make sure you can see clear photos of the home and facilities.

5. Inquire about pool, beachfront or lake access, hot tub, kitchen, laundry facilities and other amenities that are important to you.

6. Read any lease or rental agreement completely before signing. Be clear about all elements of the contract, including the security and cleaning deposits, liability issues and extra costs such as pool fees or sailboat rentals. If you have any questions, have an attorney review the agreement before signing.

Tips & Warnings

• Travel abroad on the cheap by swapping houses with someone from another country (homelink.org is one such site).

• Don't get saddled with a hefty cleaning fee. Before you sign the contract, ask if cleaning is included or if you'll need to hire a service.