Top tips on selecting California vacation rentals

Many parts of California are hotspots for visitors throughout the year. So, whether you want a fill of Baja or want to enjoy the fall season at Mendocino, you can look forward to spectacular discounts by staying in one of California’s vacation rentals.

The only tradeoff? Some amount of legwork.

Navigating vacation rentals may feel a little like riding a rough wave, but the payoffs are well worth the effort. It doesn’t matter if you are a budget traveler who cannot afford the cost of hotels and restaurants. It doesn’t matter if you’re a globe trotter who wants to enjoy the luxury of seclusion and grandeur. A rental property gives you the best of everything.

How can you rent California vacation rentals?

Two ways really. The first is through a travel agent or a property listing website. The second is directly from the homeowner. Both have their share of advantages. If you negotiate with the homeowner directly, you could get a better deal. But, homeowners cannot give you much by way of selection. They represent their home only. Also, there is always the inherent risk of the homeowner denying you accommodation due to some unforeseen problems. By approaching an agent, you get the luxury of choice. Of course, you may have to pay slightly more.

When you rent California vacation homes from a travel agent or a travel listing, you need to be vigilant. Look for good rapport with the agency. If you feel like they’re pitching too much or pressurizing you to buy, move away. Next, be very clear about what you want. Do you plan a beach holiday or a city vacation? Will you be snoozing all day or coming with a group of friends? The house must gel with your needs.

Take a total headcount of the people who will be staying at the home. Even kids. If you exceed the maximum occupancy, your contract may be considered void.

Next, find out who will be managing emergencies, like a plumbing problem or an electricity breakdown. At any vacation home, you won’t have a manager who takes care of problems. You need to be sure of what procedure to follow in case of an emergency.

Make sure that you know the location. Calculate commute times and other factors, like shopping, night spots etc.

What about amenities? Do you want a parking lot? What about little luxuries like a pool? Do you want these? Certainly, over the top luxuries will cost you more. So, be clear that you’re paying for what you want.

Lastly, flexibility is the one thing you need to enjoy a vacation. Vacation homes, whether they’re in California or anywhere else in the world, will not be perfect. Do not go with the expectation of seeing the finesse and luxury of a hotel room. You’re lucky if you get a home that is stunning, but be prepared to enjoy yourself even if the house is not spectacular.