When researching rental properties be sure to take a thorough look at the perks and amenities that may be available to you. Many mountain rental properties offer a variety such as use of a gym, pool or jacuzzi or offer affiliations with health clubs where you can receive a temporary pass to use the club facilities for a fee. Many condominiums and timeshares also have an on-site concierge who can help you with dinner reservations, lift tickets, ski rentals and the like.
Here are some other questions to consider when renting a mountain property:
- Is the property managed by a management company? If so you see other properties they manage and their ratings which can be helpful as you evaluate homes.
- Is parking available? If you plan to rent a car or drive your own car, always check to confirm whether parking is nearby or on-site and is included and available. During the winter months, you will certainly prefer indoor parking or at least covered parking. In the summer months this is not as important.
- Is the location pet-friendly? If you plan to travel with a pet, be sure to clarify the location’s policy before you finalize a rental arrangement.
- Smoking. Whether you are a smoker or non-smoker, you will want to understand the rental property’s smoking policy.
- Is there laundry on the premises and what if any are the associated costs?
- Is snow removal provided by the landlord or do you need to arrange for such services? If you do contract with snow removal services, be aware that any attempt in such a contract to require indemnification by you for any negligence on the part of the snow removal service provider, is against public policy and void under recently enacted Colorado law.
- Do you need renter’s insurance? If you are considering renting a private residence for a week, a month or a season you may be required to provide insurance. You should inquire from your personal insurance broker what these coverages will cost you. Typically, you are required to provide personal property insurance and general public liability insurance.
- Make sure you obtain a list of all service providers for utilities, appliances, plumbing, heating, snow removal, catering, masseuse, firewood, cable, satellite and security. Some home rentals do not have a management company available, and you will want to deal with service providers that are familiar with the property.
Renter Dissatisfaction
If you are renting a condominium or a timeshare and upon arrival are not pleased with your accommodations, request a change. Most management companies are very interested in repeat business and will find you another location if any are available.
Travel Insurance
Depending on the number of participants, between airfare and your rental, you could have a considerable sum of money invested in deposits or prepayments, all or some of which may not be refundable. For this reason, you may want to consider travel insurance. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, confirm you are covered even if you cancel due to the pre-existing condition. Expect premiums in the range of 5% of the cost of the trip.
In today’s world you can do a great deal of leg work without leaving the couch to find the perfect place for your needs via a virtual tour. You can also request that the property manager give you a virtual tour with a cell phone if they do not have one readily available online. The more planning and research you do upfront the more likely you are select a property that aligns with your wants and needs.
