22 Aug 5 Ways to Avoid a Vacation Rental Scam

Don’t Fall Into a Vacation Rental Scam—Follow These Tips

It’s no surprise that so many vacationers will opt for a resort rental over the traditional hotel room. With multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, and some of the best on-site amenities around, they are superior to a standard hotel vacation. Unfortunately, the internet can be difficult to navigate and vacation rental scams exist. Resort Rentals’ experts wants to ensure you have a fun and stress-free travel experience, and that all starts with booking at your favorite resorts around the world. Here are a few tips we have to avoiding vacation and travel scams now and in the future:

1. Rent known properties

This can be in the form of recommendations from those you trust, or simply taking the time to learn more about the most popular resort locations and other properties online. Not only will you learn that these properties truly exist, but it also will provide you insight as to what to expect on-site and some of the local attractions that might surround your rental.

2. Use reliable rental platforms

Though it’s tempting to use personal advertisement websites like Craigslist to find an affordable vacation rental, we urge you to consider a reputable website instead. It’s not uncommon for scammers to use these websites to create phantom rental ads or even copy the text and photos of an authentic advertisement and pose as the renters by switching out the contact information. Specialized websites like ResortRentals.com confirm the legitimacy of a rental listing and leave renters with peace of mind from start to finish.

3. Thoroughly research rentals that seem too good to be true

There are plenty of renters that get lucky and find incredible deals on premium resorts around the world, but it never hurts to be certain before committing. Utilizing those legitimate rental websites will help narrow in on true listings, but if you choose to search a personal ads website, be cautious about how much personal information you provide the “owner” until you are able to verify its existence. Free vacation scams and other instances similar are often caused by lack of knowledge, so be sure to do your due diligence!

4. Receive a contract before paying any form of deposit

Take the time to review whatever contract is sent over to you. If the owner is not compliant to this request before providing payment, this is not someone you want to be renting from. When you receive the contract, be sure that the address and contact information matches what you find with a simple online search. Call the front desk and ask about specific details in the contract with their professionals to help clarify any of your suspicions.

5. Be wary of the payment method and security policies

Never pay by check, wire transfer, or cash. It’s nearly impossible to recover money in the event of a scam, which is ideal for those who are being dishonest about their services. If the owner expects one of these methods, it’s best to walk away. The safest way to pay for any vacation is by credit card, as you can dispute the payment in the case of fraudulent activities. Many of the most reliable rental companies offer forms of money-back guarantees or additional security options.

Use ResortRentals.com to Avoid a Vacation Rental Scam

ResortRentals is a trusted source for some of the most incredible resort rental deals around the world. Stay at some of the most sought-after properties on the market and find last-minute deals that will save you thousands. We assist renters and help take care of all the details so all parties involved are left satisfied with their purchase and ready to enjoy their next trip! With more questions, please contact our experts today by calling 855-849-2025.