10 Top Tips When Booking a Villa Rental Property

10 top tips when booking a villa rental property

It sounds simple enough, but booking a villa abroad can be a bit like taking a stab in the dark, especially at this time with different Covid regulations in place. This is why Sue Flynn, accommodation specialist in Turkey, urges vacationers not to be shy when booking online to avoid any potential pitfalls and to ensure that the property in question ticks all the right boxes before. to take the plunge.

Sue, who has run Kalkan Magic, a vacation real estate specialist in Kalkan, Turkey for 15 years, gives the following tips to anyone embarking on an independent vacation:

Pay attention to booking fees

When booking a villa online, try to book directly with an owner if possible. Of course, use rental websites to research and collect information, but be aware that if you progress a booking in this way, travelers may be charged high booking fees, often hidden in the price listed.

Do your research

These days, it is easy to search by property name or owner's name. Many owners now have their own websites or Facebook / Twitter pages. This way you can contact directly and get a great price along with the most up to date information on the property.

Speak directly with the owner

Make sure you speak with the owner - a quick phone call is all it takes. Ask about Covid measures as often homeowners now use professional 'misting' services to sanitize properties between guests for added peace of mind. You would be surprised how many people book accommodation with just one email and then transfer up to £ 4000 without further delay. Most of the time, you'll be dealing with bona fide owners, but it's not worth the risk.

Build rapport

It's also worth building a rapport with the owner - that way you might be able to negotiate an earlier check-in or later check-out time. You can also ask more detailed questions and get a feel for the benefits of the location and its facilities. You can also ask the owner for advice on favorite restaurants and recommendations for that important last drink!

Think about the type of accommodation that would suit you

Decide if this is an apartment you really want or a private villa. Some apartments can still be private, but the pool will be shared with other apartments. Many people prefer the social aspects of this rather than having a private pool, but many also prefer privacy - especially if you are traveling as a couple and don't want children. It's also worth checking out the number of other properties that share the pool, as you don't want to fight for an early morning sun lounger.

Check your transfer to accommodation

If the owner books your airport transfer, check the cost of it - it shouldn't be a for-profit service. It is worth asking the question because it is good to know that it is taken care of. Make sure you have all the contact details handy for your arrival in case of delays etc.

Ask what's included

When setting your price, check if this includes anything like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, streaming services like Netflix if needed. You don't want to add any unexpected surprises.

Find location

Location is the key to a successful vacation stay. If the property you have chosen is too far to walk from town or the roads are a bit rocky, you will need to factor in car hire or taxis into the overall price of your vacation. Ask for the exact location and walking distances and if it is easily located in the dark.

Check security

It's easy to be jaded when you're on vacation but it's a good idea to check if there are any safes available and if the property has a security alarm or additional locks.

Make sure you have peace of mind

If you are traveling with children, check the ease of access to the pool as you will need to have peace of mind during your stay in your accommodation. Also check pool depths, shallow ends and, if necessary, baby pools.

Request full contact details

Make sure that the owners give you their full UK contact details in case you need to reach them urgently. Also get the contact details of the property managers or the person who will greet you when you arrive. You should have it before you leave, so if necessary you can contact them in an emergency.

Learn about currency exchange

Finally, a word on money: ask the owner if it is better to take change or change it there. Also ask where the best rates are given and at what distance. If you can make your money last longer, you can start thinking about next year!

Sue represents a handpicked collection of stunning properties in the heart of Kalkan, Turkey. His company, Kalkan Magic, offers a range of luxury properties - from stunning apartments with perfect views of exclusive developments to stylish and spacious villas with panoramic sea views.