Practical Traveler - Readers Sound Off on Private Rentals - NYTimes.com

There's been a lot of press for vacation rentals lately. An October article in the NY Times received some pretty strong response from rent by owenrs, but the nice thing that came out was a good discussion. As an owner, traveler, and manager, I've found that making a good match between the guest and the property is the key to a successful vacation rental. Read what others think at:Practical Traveler - Readers Sound Off on Private Rentals - NYTimes.com: "Regardless of whom you rent from, communication is the key. “Communicate with the agency or owner often — let them know your priorities, ask questions and get references and pictures,” offered a reader named Kathy from California, who said she has rented in various parts of Europe, and “you will learn quickly who is responsive and on top of things. Many people who rent really love their properties and locations and are happy to give you the scoop.”

Making a priority list of what you’re looking for in a rental can also be useful, she noted: “Are you looking top notch accommodations? A good location? An inexpensive place? A kid-friendly place?”

Travelers can also learn a lot from a vacation rental ad, if they know what to look for. A lack of interior photos can be a clue that something’s not quite right, a reader with the screen name, “nyc10012” pointed out, adding:

“Make a point of asking a question in your first query to the owner — did you get a quick and reasonable reply to your question? If not, trust your instinct and keep looking.”"