How to Rent a Cottage

Whether looking for a quite weekend getaway or a place to live for a summer holiday, renting a cottage can provide a nice alternative to hotels or other living arrangements. Cottages mean enjoying a home environment, complete with a nice yard and sometimes a view. If this sounds like a great idea for your next break from your routine, here are some tips on how to locate and rent the ideal cottage.

Instructions

1. Identify your destination. Before attempting to settle on any type of accommodations, it is a good idea to know where you plan on spending your holiday. Once you know where you are going, you can contact local real estate agents or check out the local chamber of commerce website to find out if cottage rentals are available.

2. Determine what amenities you would like with a rented cottage. This would include the number of bedrooms and the size of the kitchen you require. Think in terms of neighborhood as well. Would you like the cottage to be somewhat remote, affording lots of peace and quiet? Or should the cottage be in easy walking distance of shopping, cafes, or houses of worship? Knowing what you really want for a cottage rental will serve as the foundation for beginning your search.

3. Set your maximum rental price for the cottage. Keep in mind that the idea is to balance what you want in a cottage with what you can reasonably afford. If you spend all your vacation money on the rental, then you will not be able to enjoy the other attractions available in the area.

4. Check online sources to identify properties that may be of interest. Online searches using the name of the locality you plan on visiting can lead to some excellent resources. In some cases, you may be able to view images of available properties. At the very least, you can obtain telephone numbers to local realtors who can help you with your search.

5. Review the terms of the rental. Be sure you understand the range of liability you will assume during the rental period. Also make sure you know who to turn to in the case of a leaky faucet or some other minor repair job that arises during your stay. Little details of this nature will make a huge impact on how well you enjoy your holiday.

6. Make arrangements in advance. Many cottage rentals can include arranging domestic services, such as cleaning the cottage and stocking the kitchen before your arrival. Similar cleaning services may be available to tidy up the cottage just before your depart. Handling details of this nature in advance will allow you to get down to the business of enjoying yourself.

Tips & Warnings

• Cottages tend to rent very quickly during peak vacation times. If you can manage to take your holiday during an off peak season, the rental price may be greatly reduced.

• Don’t jump at the first cottage that seems to meet your requirements. Consider at least four or five options before making a decision. This will provide you with a better idea of the going rate in the area and possibly save you a great deal of money.