The right vacation villa rentals in Cyprus lets you live like a local—if only temporarily. Here are few essential tips for villa rentals in Cyprus – how to protect yourself when renting and avoiding online scams.
Know What You Want & Do Research
The first step is to identify what kind of renter you are. Each booking method, whether a for-rent-by-owner website, a club, or a brick-and-mortar agency, has its advantages. Working with an agency can cost more than dealing directly with an owner, but the search tends to be less labor-intensive and you can feel secure knowing the property has been vetted. Plus, you will often get hotel-style services (concierge; butler) and on-the-ground support. Speak to someone (other than the owner) who has seen the villa. Whenever possible, read guest reviews—not only on the agency’s website but also (if available) on the rental sites. Some agencies let you connect with past guests on Facebook; if not, ask for references—and follow up with the owner to address any red flags. You can also do your own sleuthing on Google Earth and Street View, which let you check out exterior images of the property, as well as nearby supermarkets, metro stations, restaurants, and more. And make sure to request the safety audit (smoke alarms; balcony heights), which should be recent and readily available.
Know the Law & Read the Fine Print
The contract should address the location, size, and amenities; cancellation policy; and cleanliness. If your credit card doesn’t offer coverage for vacation rentals, consider buying travel insurance. Most sites are middlemen, so they can’t control for double bookings, phishing, and Web scams. Always use a secure payment system—never wire money. And if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Pick up the Phone
Web research is useful, but it’s essential to speak directly to an agent to get the best match. Good agents have personal knowledge of their properties and can answer less obvious questions, such as, Does the villa have many steps? Are all bedrooms equal in size? Is there any current construction nearby? Be sure to discuss whether services are included or require a fee.
Take Advantage of the Special Offers
The rent of vacation homes boomed in the recent years. Increased supply can mean better deals, and rental agencies will often throw in extras to stay competitive. Ask whether the owner is willing to sweeten the deal with free housekeeping, a private chef, or use of a car. You might also be able to get discounts for extended stays or lower rates during shoulder season.
Make It Official & Buy travel Insurance
Always sign a contract when renting a villa—it will protect you, the owner, and the agent. A good contract outlines policies on cancellation, the security deposit, property damage, and what would constitute an unsatisfactory stay. It should also spell out what is and isn’t included in the price, such as air-conditioning, international phone calls, electricity, and heating the pool. Renting a villa can offer good value, but it’s still a big investment. Insurance policies vary: look for one that covers cancellation because of an emergency (in case you need to get your nonrefundable deposit back).
Closer Look: Listings
Before sealing the deal, make sure you know how to read between the lines of property descriptions. Below, a few pointers.
Beachfront or Oceanfront: “Oceanfront” may mean there is no beach, and “beachfront” doesn’t always mean the water’s swimmable and doesn’t always guarantee access. If the listing mentions water views, find out how far the property is from the ocean—and if there are any roads in between.
Sleeps Six: Ask for the total number of bedrooms (and make sure foldout couches aren’t part of the count).
Pool Access: This is not the same as a private pool. You may be sharing it with other guests, or it could be off-property.
Guest House
Make sure yours contains bedrooms, bathrooms, and a kitchen, and that it is not simply a pool house or storage area.
Personal Chef
Find out whether it’s the housekeeper, who may prepare simple meals, or a professionally trained chef who will pull out all the stops.
Modern Family
Nowadays many of the rental modern villas are kids friendly offering great facilities to the kids to keep them occupied.
What to Ask
Parents should find out how may floor the villa has and if there’s an elevator. Ask about pool gates, and location. A house full of toys in Cyprus is less crucial than proximity to attractions.
The Ideal Family Rental
A cozy and clean place with an open kitchen, a garden, and an extra bedroom to accommodate either the babysitter or grandparents. And no white leather sofas!
