Orlando Villas - Questions and tips for first time rentors

As a first timer renter, you've probably got loads of questions and maybe a couple of concerns that you would like to clear up before you rent your first villa. Orlando villas come in many shapes, sizes and locations. There are also many villa communities to choose from. This article outlines a few tips for choosing the perfect villa for you. One of your main worries will probably be handing over a large amount of rental cash to someone you have met over the internet. Usually your first contact will bee via e-mail. I'd suggest getting their phone number and giving them a call. This will probably allay most of your fears. It's also nice to chat directly with the owner so you can chat about the property and make sure it is the right one for you. What questions should I be asking the owners? You've chosen a villa that is available for your vacation, so what questions should you be asking the property owners. This all depends on what your requirements for your vacation rental are, and hopefully many of the questions you may have had have been answered by the details of the property. As a minimum I ask the following questions. How easy is the property to find? After a long flight, I like to know exactly where I'm going and lets face it, you've had enough stress getting through the airport with the kids and your other half. The owners usually supply you with a detailed set of instructions for getting to the property. How old is the property? Or more importantly, how well maintained is the property. Orlando gets it fair share of hurricane weather and the homes do take a battering. Where/how do I get the keys? This can vary between properties. Sometimes the keys are stored in a key-coded box outside the property. Other times these are looked after by the management company and you have to collect them from there. On occasion, the owner may post them to your home address. Where/who are the management company? Whilst on vacation, if there are any problems at the vacation home, you will want to know who to contact to get these rectified. You may also want to ask about the security arrangements at the property, such as does it have a safe and house alarm. What stores/restaurants are nearby? This may be of particular interest on your first night so you can get some essential supplies for when you arrive. You may want to check if the property has at least one roll of toilet paper for when you arrive! How secluded is the pool/Is it south facing? If the pool at the property is a big thing for you then you may be looking for a pool that is not overlooked, or for sun worshippers you'll want to know if the pool is in the sun for large parts of the day. You will also want to know how much pool heating costs (if required) as this is usually an additional fee on top of the rental costs. What does the villa have for the kids? If travelling with a toddler you'll require high-chair, crib and stroller. Ask if they are included in the rental. On the entertainment front, Playstation2 and Air-Hockey are common place in many villas. How long does it take to get to the Theme Parks? This will be your opportunity to confirm how long it takes to get to the action, and find out any tips the owners may have for by-passing the main traffic. Keep in mind that the time to travel to the parks may be much longer in peak season. This is obviously not an exhaustive list, but has hopefully given you an idea of the sort of questions you may want to ask.