Check the cancellation terms with the owner at the time of booking - deposits are often non-refundable and they may have a sliding scale of charges for last minute cancellations after the balance has been paid. We recommend that you ask for any terms and conditions in writing. Make sure that you have the address and directions to the property. These are normally sent to you on payment of the balance.

Make sure that you have the telephone number of the owner or their representative so that you can call to let them know if your arrival time is delayed. If you encounter an owner who is unwilling to talk to you on the phone, beware. You simply cannot send money to someone you’ve never spoken to. Go with your gut feeling.

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