Wednesday, March 20, 2013

5 Questions to Ask When Renting a Vacation Home on Lake Michigan


Although today marks the first day of spring; the warm breezes, budding flowers and long days spent outdoors may still seem far off.  It can be easy when winter seems to keep hanging on to daydream about your upcoming vacation in New Buffalo, Grand Beach, Harbert, Union Pier or any of the other charming cities along the Lake Michigan Shoreline.
As the team here at Shoreline Property Advisors, we always enjoy showcasing our Prudential Rubloff Vacation Rentals in these popular vacation destinations!  If you are dreaming of a relaxing getaway, but haven’t rented a vacation home before, here are a few tips for determining which property is right for you!
1. Know exactly what's included.
- While it may be understood that “everything is included,” you’ll want to know exactly what this means.  Are utilities, wifi, cable all a part of the deal?  Ask about any possible extra charges that may be incurred so that you’re fully prepared.  
2. Is the home family friendly?
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If you're traveling with kids, make sure the property you rent is family friendly.  Not only will you want to make sure there are enough beds for everyone, but you’ll want to make sure you feel comfortable with the properties distance from the water, and if there is a pool.  Also, if you want your pet to join you on your vacation, be sure to check to see if pets are allowed and if there is a weight limit.
3. Is a refund available if you leave early?
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If you think you may want or need to leave early, check your contract to see if you're eligible for a partial refund. Most vacation rentals are for a specific time period and don't offer refunds because that leaves the homeowner in a lurch with no time to rent to someone else. Know going in what the rules are so there are no unpleasant surprises.
4. Love the house you pick.
- Because you can’t change the home once you arrive (like you could a hotel room), make sure you love the house you pick!  Be sure to check out pictures, read reviews and do your research to ensure it’s a home you’ll feel completely comfortable in, and able to enjoy for your entire vacation. 
5. Reserve early.
- Believe it or not, homes are already beginning to fill up for this summer along the Lake Michigan Shoreline.  Whether you choose Lakeside, Sawyer, Three Oaks, Michiana or New Buffalo; you’ll want to start your search now and book early to ensure you get the home you want!  
Now, you may be considering searching out vacation rentals on your own and working directly with the home owner to book your vacation getaway.  However, working with a trusted and experienced vacation rental company comes with a great advantage.
Geoff Ballotti, president and CEO of nationally acclaimed Wyndham Exchange & Rentals puts it this way, "The benefits of renting from a company you can trust with your family, your credit card, and your invaluable vacation time can't be understated. Book with a company that regularly manages and inspects its properties to ensure they meet a high standard of quality and safety, [as well as] one that offers online bookings and payments, can handle booking amendments and cancellations, and provides impeccable customer service and around-the-clock check-in assistance." 
We couldn’t agree more!  You want a company that knows the ins and outs of renting a vacation home and can match you with a great home that fits exactly what you’re looking for in a vacation property!
Interested in learning more about our services and the vacation rentals we have available?  Please feel free to contact us today to get started!  

Shoreline Property Advisors
@ Prudential Rubloff

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