Vacation rentals

Vacation rentals are becoming increasingly popular among travelers looking for affordable accommodations when visiting Los Angeles. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend away with your significant other, a fun girls’ trip, or just a relaxing retreat with friends, renting a vacation property is a great way to save money and enjoy some quality time together.

But before you book that dream vacation, make sure you understand all the ins and outs of vacation rentals so you can find the best deal possible. Here are four things you need to know about vacation rentals in Los Angeles:

1. Vacation Rental Websites Are Great Resources For Finding Properties But They Aren’t Always Accurate

Many websites claim to provide accurate information about vacation properties but aren’t always reliable. When searching for a vacation rental, it’s important to research the site thoroughly to ensure that it provides accurate information about the property.

For example, Airbnb claims that its users have visited every property listed on its platform. However, according to a study conducted by the University of California, Berkeley, only 40 percent of listings were actually viewed by guests.

Airbnb also says that it uses third-party verification systems to verify hosts and their properties. However, the company doesn’t disclose the names of these third parties, making it difficult to confirm whether or not the sites it uses are legitimate.

So, when researching a vacation rental, look for reviews from previous guests and ask questions directly to the host. Also, consider contacting the Better Business Bureau or the state attorney general’s office to learn more about the background of the owner/manager.

2. Some Rentals Have Hidden Fees And Costs

Some vacation rentals charge extra fees for things like parking, Wi-Fi access, cleaning, and even utilities. These hidden costs can add up quickly and significantly reduce the amount of money you’ll spend during your stay.

It’s important to read the fine print carefully before signing a contract to rent a vacation property. Ask the owner upfront about any additional charges and fees, including taxes, deposits, cancellation penalties, and damage deposit requirements.

Also, make sure to ask about the length of the lease, since some owners may require you to sign a one-year lease instead of a shorter term.

3. Many Renters Don’t Know How To Care For Their Property Properly

When you rent a vacation property, you’re responsible for maintaining it properly. Vacation rentals come with basic housekeeping supplies, but you’ll likely need to purchase items like toilet paper, soap, shampoo, dishwashing liquid, trash bags, garbage cans, and mops.

Make sure you know exactly what you’re getting yourself into before booking a vacation rental. Read the listing description carefully to make sure everything is included in the price.

4. There Are Different Types Of Vacation Rentals Available

While many vacation rentals offer similar features, there are different types of vacation rentals available. For instance, some vacation homes are fully furnished, while others are unfurnished.

Fully furnished vacation rentals typically cost more because they include furniture, appliances, bedding, towels, linens, dishes, pots & pans, etc. Unfurnished rentals usually cost less because they don’t include these items.