How to rent a holiday home

Use our search service allows you to filter properties on a great range of qualities, including availability dates, accommodation types and locations, and also suitability for families, wheelchair users or families wishing to travel with pets.

Once you have found a selection of properties that you are interested in, you must contact the owner directly, either through the form within the advert, or by using the contact details published.

N.B Ensure your contact details are correct to ensure a prompt response.

Top Tip: Remember to read property reviews left by previous guests. These provide a priceless insight into what you can expect from the property and its suitability for you and your family.

It is standard for a homeowner to ask for a deposit (usually between 10% and 50% of the rental price) in order to secure your reservation. The deposit, as well as terms of it’s return (relating to damage or additional fees like telephone charges) should be included.

 

Although there are many payment options when paying the deposit, credit cards and Pay Pal are recommended. Western Union , cashier’s cheques and wire services are not recommended.

After receipt of the deposit, the property owner or manager should then send through a rental agreement contract. This will outline arrival and departure dates/times, cancellation/refund policies and additional policies such as those relating to pets. Review this contract carefully before signing it and returning it to the owner.

Always keep your copy of this agreement for your records.

Make sure you register your trip with the HomeAway Rental Guarantee immediately after you book your holiday rental. Registration is absolutely free, and protects your holiday for up to £3,300.

The exact payment schedule will be outlined in the Rental Agreement sent to you by the owner, and this will vary from property to property, but in the huge majority of cases, full payment is expected prior to your arrival at the property. In order to avoid losing your deposit, all payments should be made on time.

The same payment methods that were recommended for the deposit are recommended for sending the final payment.

Before you leave for your holiday, it is advised that you ensure you have the following information from the property owner:

•    The properties physical address
•    The keys to the property, or a pre-arranged pick up point
•    Owner’s or property manager’s contact details
•    Driving instructions from the airport or an arranged pick up

Contact the owner to arrange the return of your reservation deposit. As long as the holiday rental was left in the same state as it was upon your arrival, you should receive a full refund.

Writing a review of the property on site is not only and excellent way of letting the owner know your thoughts on their property, but also gives potential guests a far better understanding of the property, the area and it’s suitability for their trip.

You can do this by finding the property in which you stayed and clicking on the “Write a Review” link.