Determining The Value of A Vacation Rental

During this particularly value conscious period of time, more and more attention is being paid to the "alternate" vacation accommodation. Families are opting to stay in vacation rentals, whether they be condos or private homes, as the value is apparent.

Rather than renting a hotel room suite or 2 rooms for a family of 4 or 5 people, everyone can be more comfortable with an apartment, cottage or house offering not only more space and privacy, but literally all the comforts of home. A place where a meal can be made, where there are generally books, dvds and games for home entertainment, where a late night snack does not mean a visit to a vending machine.

For those seeking a visit to Sanibel Island during high season, there are many value options to be found. Condo units still available for weeks during the month of March are being offered as "specials" indicating that a discounted price is now available. And vacation goers are savvy enough to know that the availability of a vacation rental does not reflect on its desirability. In a slumping economy with fewer people traveling, even nice rentals are not always filled. The vacationer should, in this market or any other, ask all the appropriate questions to assure that the rental is going to meet their needs.

The biggest challenge to the vacationer is not what generic type of lodging makes the most sense from a dollar to dollar comparison, but just what specific accommodation offers the most value.

Much of the intrinsic value of a vacation accommodation is particular to the vacationer's needs.

Gulf front condos do offer a special view on the world, but those a little further from the beach may offer a more spacious accommodation. Similarly, if the renter wants to be close to the causeway onto Sanibel for easiest entrance/exit, the east end of Island may offer the most value.

Vacation rentals, though an overall value, are really not one size fits all. A renter looking to maximize their vacation time should consider the priorities of their rental party in searching for and booking their place in paradise.