If you are planning a real vacation and you plan to be away for a week or more, you may want to consider a vacation rental rather than a hotel for your accommodations. There are real benefits to vacation rental properties, but choosing a vacation rental in Florida depends on the kind of vacation and getaway you are planning. Here are some things to keep in mind when considering a vacation rental.

Vacation rentals are homes, condos, townhouses, or apartments in Florida that are usually privately owned but run by a property management company of some kind. Some owners choose to manage their own Florida properties, but most choose to leave the details to an experienced property management company.

Because these are actual residences, they have all the amenities. Imagine them like a hotel suite complete with kitchen, living rooms, separate bedrooms and bathrooms. The difference is the size. A hotel suite will have a "kitchenette" with a small refrigerator, and microwave, where a vacation rental has a real full size kitchen for you to use at your convenience. Florida vacation properties usually come fully furnished: all necessary furniture, kitchen appliances, tableware, an even linens. Some may request that you provide your own linens, but many come with a washer and dryer. It is like staying at a friends house while he or she is out of town! Privacy is big plus here. Depending on the size and lavishness of the Florida vacation rental, you can even have your own private pool, or private beach (depending on location). If you are planning a longer vacation, a vacation rental in Florida can help cut back on the cost of meals. You can purchase food at a grocery and cook meals for yourself. If you really want isolation you can always stop at a store upon arrival and pick up the things you will need for your stay, and never need to leave the comfort of the rental for the duration of your vacation. Florida vacation rentals are great for larger groups. If you are planning some sort of getaway with a group of friends or family you may find that Florida vacation rentals are better fit. They allow for larger groups to stay together under the same roof. This allows you to split the cost of the rental amongst 4, 8, even 25 people depending on the size of your group and the property!

What are the drawbacks to Florida vacation rentals? Well, there are a few. First, most vacation rentals don't come with maid service. Some of the more extravagant properties offer hospitality services but most do not. This means there won't be anyone coming by to make the beds or wash the dishes. Additionally there may be a cleaning deposit required prior to your arrival. This insures that you will leave the property in the condition you found it in. Cleaning deposits are usually reasonable, costing as little as $35 dollars. Also, recognize that most Florida vacation rentals require a minimum stay of at least several days and they require payment in advance and deposits to hold the property. Remember to ask for (recent) color photos of the property's exterior and interior, and references. Get some first hand reports from previous guests who can attest to the condition of the property and their satisfaction.

Making the choice between a Florida vacation rental and a hotel, motel, or resort really does depend on what kind of getaway you are planning. Take some time and think about what your vacation goals are. If you are looking to get away from the day in and day out of every day life, cleaning house in a vacation rental may not be the ideal accommodation. But if clean up doesn't bother you and you really want to be left to your own devices Florida will have a vacation rental property that will be right for you and your guests.

Vacation rentals for long or short term are available at a variety of different locations throughout the Florida.

RGI is currently collecting information about the vacation rental property in Florida. If you have information about Florida you would like to contribute please contact us. Additionally, if you have an Florida business you would like listed on RGI please contact us for more information.

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