Short term rental properties have seen a surge in demand in recent years, with an increasing number of travelers preferring this type of accommodation over hotels. Business travelers can utilize such accommodations, while those seeking relaxation can also benefit. However, all individuals should know what to look for when selecting a trustworthy property.
With an increase in short term rentals on the market for travelers, you must understand how to spot the good and the bad. Thankfully, this post has outlined three key considerations to keep in mind before finalizing your short term rental booking.
Research the Property’s Location Thoroughly
When you are going on a trip and plan to use a short term rental, you must consider its accessibility and proximity to desired places and transportation. No one wants to book a rental property that is miles away from the areas they wish to visit. This can make the entire trip feel like an inconvenience, particularly if you need to pay for a taxi or Uber because there are no public transport links nearby.
Fortunately, there are multiple ways to research a property’s location and its proximity to amenities, attractions, public transportation, and other relevant factors. Google Street View can be used to visually explore the surrounding area and gain a better understanding of the streetscape. There should also be a wealth of information available from the booking platform or the host’s website, although this information should be verified against other resources.
There is a possibility of scams when renting a property for a month or more. This is why renters should conduct a reverse image search to determine if the listing is being used for other listings, which could signal a scam. You can do this by right-clicking on the image and searching for it on Google.
Evaluate Guest Reviews and Photos
Reviewing a short term rental can build trust and credibility for future travelers, enabling them to make more informed decisions about where they stay. For those travelers, reviews should be checked before finalizing a decision to ensure the property they select is worth the money they have paid.
Photos and reviews added by previous visitors can offer an insight into the actual cleanliness, condition, and layout of the rental property. This can help you verify the accuracy of the property’s listing and ensure it aligns with your expectations. After all, a rental that advertises certain facilities, such as a dishwasher and/or WIFI, but doesn’t actually deliver would be a disappointment, especially if you have paid extra.
While you can compare photos to the listing description, be sure to check the review dates to ensure the feedback is current. The property might have changed since older reviews were posted. However, if you find that repeated complaints have been made about specific problems, like inconsistent cleanliness or malfunctioning appliances, then you should not disregard their reliability.
Ensure the Rental Matches Your Needs
As previously mentioned, you do not want to be disappointed and unsatisfied with the rental property after finalizing your selection. This is when your previous research will be particularly useful. Ensure the rental has all the essential amenities and features you need to be comfortable during your stay. For example, if you are traveling for work, then reliable WIFI and a workspace might be essential.
When evaluating the suitability of short term rentals in Scarborough, for example, the layout and size of the property should also be considered, particularly if you are traveling with a group. What may look spacious in the photos could feel cramped in person. You shouldn’t hesitate to ask the host specific questions if any details are unclear in the listing, including building accessibility, parking availability, or pet policies.
To conclude, booking a short term rental for your travels, ensure it meets all your needs. This can be helped along by checking its location, assessing reviews and photos, and guaranteeing it has the crucial amenities.
