Millions of Americans take a ski or snowboarding vacation every year. As people's interest in winter vacations continues to snowball, so too does interest in renting winter vacation homes.
The homes can be a comfortable way to bring family or friends together for a great trip. They tend to provide more space than a simple hotel room (good for storing equipment and lounging around after a day on the slopes), they can help cut food costs because they often come with full kitchens and large groups can often get discounted rates.
So how do you choose the ski vacation home that best suits your needs? Try these tips. They come from experts at ResortQuest, the country's largest ski vacation home rental company.
? Look Before You Book-Look for companies that offer a simple way to determine a home's suitability for you and your winter sport companions. Check the company's Web site. It should provide photos as well as detailed descriptions of accommodations. It should also tell you the home's proximity to the slopes and available services.
? Perks-Many vacation rental companies offer renters special perks, from discounted lift tickets to free ski lessons and even entertainment or attraction tickets for time off the slopes.
? Amenities-Make sure the home has all of the amenities your group needs. Is there space for skis, parkas, snowboards and other equipment to be stored safely? Is the washer/dryer large enough to accommodate all your gear? Will there be enough towels for everyone every day?
? Word Of Mouth-Ask the rental company if a property has a high percentage of return guests. You can also check online forums to see what people have to say.
? Sleep Tight/Ski Right-Decide in advance who bunks with whom and where. Take into account when travelers plan to hit the slopes. Look for vacation accommodations where each bedroom has its own bathroom, or set up bathroom usage schedules in advance.
? Feeding Time-Can arrangements be made in advance to have the pantry stocked? Are there places nearby from which food can be delivered? Decide in advance how to share costs of food and beverages, who cooks and who cleans up.
? Just In Case-Be sure you can take care of urgent needs while at the property-from getting an extra toothbrush to dealing with medical emergencies. Look for properties that have local management offices or representatives from the rental management company available to assist around the clock.
Author: Trevor Russell
Author Bio:
The Homeownership Preservation Foundation (www.995HOPE.org) is a Minneapolis-based nonprofit organization dedicated to helping homeowners facing financial difficulties retain their homeownership. (888) 995-HOPE-Hotline to help homeowners avoid foreclosure.
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