Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Verify Rentals for Summer

Verify Rentals for Summer

Verify Rentals for Summer

Posted: 29 May 2010 06:06 PM PDT

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Vacation rentals can be a way to save money on your summer getaway. Just be sure to do some due diligence.

Local real-estate agents, especially in resort areas, typically have summer-rental listings. And they do all the vetting.

You can find some properties through third-party rental sites, such as HomeAway.com. HomeAway offers payment protection in cases of misrepresentation or fraud on the part of the landlord.

Check with the Better Business Bureau (bbb.org) for any complaints against third-party sites. And sites like TripAdvisor.com may have user reviews of rental companies and landlords in popular rental spots.

If dealing directly with the owner, you may be able to verify a property's ownership in public records listed on local-government websites. Or, ask the landlord for proof of ownership, such as a utility bill. And be sure to request references. Use Google Maps Street View to verify a location.

A contract should outline what's included in the rental price, such as utilities, Internet and cable, as well as rules for security deposits, pets and refunds, says Alison Southwick, a spokeswoman for the Better Business Bureau.

Don't make a payment until you sign a contract. Individual landlords likely won't accept credit cards. If you don't want to pay by check, they may accept payment through PayPal, for a small fee.

Write to Jonnelle Marte at jonnelle.marte@wsj.com

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