| Using online ads to locate a renter is easy. | | | | to make your guest's stay more pleasurable. In |
| Maintaining a vacation rental house is more difficult | | | | an accessible spot, place a notebook/binder which |
| but can be a win-win for both you and the guest | | | | contains important information about the |
| if you keep things simple. Assume this is an | | | | premises: This should include emergency numbers |
| investment property which you intend to keep | | | | of repair men, garbage days, delivery men and |
| and don't plan for much self-use. You want to | | | | neighbors to contact. You can list restaurants, |
| create an attractive, comfortable setting for the | | | | directions to museums and other attractions. |
| tenant with the least effort by either of you. And | | | | Many communities publish yearly booklets which |
| as you are improving your property, ask your tax | | | | feature classified ads of proprietors and other |
| advisor if there are benefits now and in the | | | | key numbers. Keep it handy. |
| future. Invest in extra attic insulation; more than | | | | Good communication is the key. The more a |
| 60% of your heating and cooling escapes through | | | | contract delineates responsibilities the better. An |
| the roof. Change the gutters and offsets with the | | | | exception can be made for reasonable wear, tear |
| newest, seamless technology, which prevent drips | | | | and breakage. But this doesn't include charcoal in |
| and will also keep out leaves, debris and unwanted | | | | the pool filter or stomping Ring-Dings on a brand |
| furry visitors. House painting is an expensive, time | | | | new sofa. Reach an agreement and later withhold |
| consuming chore. You can check the classifieds | | | | some of the security deposit until you are |
| for handymen. But consider vinyl, fade resistant | | | | satisfied with the property's condition. If the |
| siding-you'll never paint again! Install the latest | | | | renters want to take a non-forgivable option for |
| triple-glazed, windows to further insulate the | | | | next season, you can afford to be more lenient. |
| structure and reduce costs. You will recover them | | | | The yardwork, too, can be negotiable (including |
| in reduced energy bills in about seven years, | | | | pool and Jacuzzi if applicable). But it might be |
| excluding tax benefits. Now that you've buttoned | | | | better to employ special people for these tasks. |
| up the exterior, let's see what you can do inside. | | | | The renter will appreciate it, the property will |
| The interior floor plan will benefit from being | | | | reflect it and so will you when the lease expires. It |
| uncluttered; laminated surfaces should | | | | may cost more but it can be recovered in higher |
| predominate; the walls should sport light color | | | | rental fees and a repeat rental. After all, that is |
| schemes and paintings. Your new windows will | | | | the real win-win; it's when owner and guests get |
| allow for plenty of light, retain cool air in hot | | | | the most for their money with as little effort as |
| weather and keep out the cold in winter. Be sure | | | | possible. |
| to include all amenities, appliances and electronics | | | | |