I'll be going to Miami Beach this winter for a month. A gift to myself, if you will, and I started my search for an ocean view condo this weekend..., it's a tad overwhelming though. There's an abundance of sites like homeaway where owners list their rentals, but I haven't found a rental agency so far (as another option). I'm sure I'll figure it all out..., but if you have any experience in finding a vacation home via internet or have any tips, I'd really appreciate it.
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Maya @ Completely Coastal
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I've been thinking about doing the same thing this upcoming winter, although not necessarily to Miami Beach..just a beach (I'm not picky!). Please keep us posted on your search!
ReplyDeleteI've had great luck with VRBO.com (vacation rental by owner). We've rented through individuals and through realty companies that way. You could google search miami rental agency and miami rental realty and I bet you'll find some hits.
ReplyDeleteIf you're not set on Miami, I just stayed in an an ocean front condo in Anna Maria Island - Holmes Beach. It's on the gulf coast and has the prettiest beaches my husband and I have ever seen anywhere in the world. But it's very low key - family restaurants only...no bars, etc. Small town feel. Email me if you want the web site and I'll send it to you.
Hope you have a great month in the sun!!!
Oooh. Best part of a Miami trip: a visit to the Jonathan Adler design store!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea. I too have used VRBO with great results. I absolutely love Miami, and haven't spent nearly enough time there.
ReplyDeleteI use homeaway.com. But make sure it's a place that people have left feedback on. Make sure the pictures are up to date. I've seen ones with pictures from like 10 yrs ago.
ReplyDeleteRead small print, make sure what is included and what is not.
And contacting the owner and there is plenty of great communication, big key in determining if the place is good or not.
READ ad, so many post pictures of the beach and after reading you find out your so many miles away from the beach. Very misleading.
lucky you!! a whole month! we just got back from a place that we rented from VRBO, and were pleased with. we have rented places over the internet before and were not happy, but several friends were pleased with VRBO and we took there recomendation and it turned out well. good luck!
ReplyDeleteOh Maya, you lucky duck a month? Wow! I'll have to email a friend (hair stylist) of mine who just stayed in Miami on vacation to see what hotel they stayed in.......could have been a condo too ..although they merely went for R & R away from two toddlers. Have a wonderful time...will you have your laptop? Luanne
ReplyDeleteWow, looks like an amazing place. I know Trip Advisor is pretty good.
ReplyDeleteBEAUTIFUL photo! I have not been to Miami since I was a kid... would LOVE to return with my kids!
ReplyDeleteI am sad that i cannot help you .. Although if you need someone to carry your bags for you..... xx
ReplyDeleteSounds devine!!! I can't help you though,just be careful I would say,things are not always as they appear!All the best,Chrissy
ReplyDeleteThank you all so much!! I'll be checking out VRBO, and take all the tips to heart for sure. Also, I'll definitely keep you posted on the search, and will take my laptop with me!
ReplyDeleteA whole month? Lucky you. I had a good experience with http://www.caribbeandays.com/ a few years ago... they have a few U.S. properties, but I don't think anything in Miami. The VRBO emails have a lot of the same properties listed. Lots of owners use several management companies.
ReplyDeleteTips:
the word "villa" can mean anything from a condo to a mansion
if a car's provided, you can often do better renting on your own
really pin people down about the phrases "beachfront", "waterfront", "ocean view", "on the beach", etc. (get specifics... they can mean different things
when you arrive, immediately do a walk-thru to note anything problems & notify the management company ASAP by phone, with a followup in writing... that way you can relax knowing you won't get charged for little repairs or stains they may have overlooked in prepping for your arrival
Working with Caribbean Days was a pleasure.
Happy day,
~Julia
We have had pretty good luck with VRBO.com...used them for a place in Cayman Brac, a place near Galveston, and a place in Oregon. My advice is, once you narrow down your search, request TONS of photos! All that the owners have, preferably, lol. The more photos they can give you, the fewer unpleasant surprises!
ReplyDeleteHave fun!
For a MONTH?! How fabulous! I don't really know much about Miami but do hope you take a driving trip to Key West for a night...the drive from Miami is magnificent!!
ReplyDelete