“I’ve never rented a vacation home before. How does the experience differ from renting a hotel or motel room for my vacation?”

   An individually owned home is more spacious and more private than a hotel or motel room. You will have the entire home, including a fully-equipped kitchen and often more than one bath, at your disposal. You will not have, of course, room service or valet parking. But you can often arrange for daily maid service if you would like it. Just ask the reservation coordinator. In comparing cost, you will likely find that the cost per bedroom to rent a vacation home is significantly less than the same number of hotel rooms.

   “I’m a little apprehensive about renting a vacation home sight-unseen. How can I insure that I won’t be disappointed?”

   Be as detailed as possible in telling the reservation coordinator what type home will meet your needs. Let that person know what style home you prefer (contemporary, with modern furniture and fixtures, or a mountain cabin with stone fireplace and rustic furnishings, for example). Also, telling the reservation coordinator what you don’t want is a help (“I really don’t like a rustic cabin – I want to be pampered” or “It doesn’t have to be modern – rustic is fine”). Ask if there are written descriptions or photos available.

   “What will I need to bring with me?”

   At Idyllwild Vacation Rentals, you need only arrive with your clothes and your groceries. All of our properties come complete with bed and bath linen and soap and paper products. For others companies, you may need to bring your own bed linens and cleaning supplies. Be sure to see what is included by referring to “Reservation Information”.

   “Is there a security deposit involved?”

   There are two options for you to choose from to protect yourself from accidental or unintentional damage. 1)The Security Deposit Protector Plan - which, for a small fee, insures you, your family or your guests up to $1500.00 against any unwillful, unintentional or accidental damage or loss. Your second option is 2)The standard security deposit which is held pending any damage or loss following your departure. The security deposit ranges from $300 to $500 or more.

   “Are all the utilities on in my vacation home when I arrive? And what about telephone and cable TV?”

   The home you reserve is prepared especially for you prior to your arrival which includes turning on the electricity and water, setting the thermostat according to the weather, and numerous other duties are performed for your arrival. Telephones are provided in most homes and local calls may be made at no charge. However, all long distance calls will require a telephone calling card or credit card. Most vacation homes are equipped with the standard cable service for the area. Homes where cable is not available are listed in the description for that home.

   “Am I expected to clean the vacation home before I depart?”

   We want you to enjoy your visit to Idyllwild right up to the last minute. So, we only request that you leave the home in reasonable condition by bagging your trash and leaving things in a reasonably orderly manner. Leave the basic cleaning to our housekeepers—it is included in your booking fee. However, excessive cleaning or damage may be charged to your security deposit or security deposit protector plan.

   “When is the most economical time to book a vacation rental home?”

   Like most resort areas, Idyllwild has its high and low seasons. High season occurs during mid summer and most holidays. The best rates are obtained during the low season—normally spring and fall. Watch for the specials and get one night free during low season!

   “Are there any tips for getting the best service from the Reservations Coordinator who takes my call?”

   Take notes about the available vacation rentals you discuss so you don’t have to ask the Reservation Coordinator to repeat them. Know the number of people and the sleeping arrangements and the dates of your arrival and departure. Try calling mid week or mid morning or mid afternoon. The telephones are less busy during those times so you are likely to get the most attention and be able to discuss all aspects of your vacation in more detail.

   “Can I make reservations at the last minute?”

   Yes, although it may be difficult during high season, don’t ever hesitate to call at the last minute—there just may be a cancellation. Always ask!

   “How do I check-in after the office is closed?”

   If you plan to arrive after office hours, please call the office ahead of time to make special arrangements for pick up of your packet and pertinent information. We highly encourage you to arrive early enough (before dark) so that your cabin can be easily located. However, we understand individual circumstances and will do our best to accommodate your needs.