Great advise from Tamara about how to spend your vacation time.
Upon Departure, How Clean Should You Leave Your Vacation Rental?
I occasionally get this questioned asked by others, and although each situation is unique and each vacation rental has its own standards, the general consensus I have found in the industry is to "leave the home in the same condition as found".
Vacationers should not be expected to spend their precious vacation time cleaning hours on end mopping the floors, scrubbing the bathtub and toilets, etc. on short stays, such as a weekly rental. However, there are some common courtesies that should be considered, and if in doubt, be sure to ask the Homeowner or Property Manager their expectations prior to renting.
On my personal rentals, I don't expect the guests to make the bed when departing, because I know my local Caretaker is going to be washing the sheets shortly after. What is appreciated though, is that upon departure, the home is basically picked up with everything in place as found, and there are no crumbs and trash left behind to attract island bugs. It is recommended to do the dishes and laundry (towels) the night before so that the cleaning person does not have a lot of extra work to do. This is particularly important if there is a turn-around guest coming in later that departure day, as the laundry takes the most time for the Cleaner in-between guests.
If you don't want to clean during your stay, many vacation rentals have optional housekeeping for an additional fee that can be arranged.
Some Property Owners/Managers will have a clause in their rental agreement that advises if the unit is left abnormally dirty and if the Cleaner has to do additional cleaning, that this additional fee may be billed to the Guest, or deducted from the security deposit.
It's a win-win situation for all when common courtesy is followed, and everyone is happy. Many homeowners take pride and joy in sharing their home with guests, and hope guests will feel the same way in caring for the rental. My experience is that most owners don't expect clean pristine perfection upon departure as they want their guests to enjoy themselves, but would still like guests just to take a little bit of time to keep the place fairly tidy to make it easier for the transition to the next guest. The homeowners and their cleaning personnel always appreciate the respectful renters, and they are always welcome back!
Tamara Camden, Licensed Vacation Rental Agent
Specializing in Florida Vacation Rentals (and some in the Caribbean)
All Rentals 2 Remember, inc.
ph (305) 293-0856
http://www.AllRentals2Remember.com
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CENTURY 21 Absolute Realty
Serving Delaware County, Pennsylvania and Surrounding Areas
610-909-0687 Doug 610-328-4300 x131 Office
484-431-3686 Gloria Visit our Blog
Email GloriaTodor@Century21.com
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