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Trust Your Instincts: 10 Lines From Renters That Should Raise a Red Flag
A lighthearted take on a few conversations with prospective renters that should make you pause and contemplate a bit before accepting their booking.
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1) “I noticed that your ad says ‘no smoking,' but cigars are okay, right?”
2) “We're not 100% that we're to go on vacation this summer, but we'd like to go ahead and book a week-- just in case. What is the last day that we can cancel without losing our deposit?”
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3) “My twelve-week-old schnauzer puppy is pretty much house broken and only chews on the furniture when we're not watching him.”
4) “We have sixteen cats that we like to bring on vacation with us. However, we'll only bring as many you allow. What is the maximum number of cats that you allow your guests to bring?”
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5) “We live in the area and would like to rent your home for one evening.”
6) “I am a very responsible 19-year-old college student and would like to stay at your property with 10 of my friends for spring break.”
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7) “How often do you clean your light fixtures, dust your blinds, and clean under your refrigerator?”
8) “$1500 for one week is a pretty steep, don't you think? I'll give you $250 for the week.”
9) “Do you have washable paint on your walls? I ask because my two-year-old is going through an artistic phase and his favorite canvas is a bedroom wall.”
10) “I am a prince from Nigeria about to come into my inheritance…”
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What do you do when you spot a vacation rental red flag?
"I try to respond to any inquiry that doesn't look like a scam, even if it raises a red flag. I answer the question by citing my official policy, explaining my security and damage deposits, and inviting them to read the complete rental agreement. I am always clear that I am not willing to negotiate and this generally stops them from pressing me further." -- Elaine B., Eastham, MA.
"When I sense a red flag during an interview with a renter, I gently let him know that his application will be reviewed on a first come first serve basis that way, I can get out without jeopardizing anything." - Zoong, Scottsdale, AZ.
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© Copyright HomeAway, Inc. 2008, Updated 10/24/08
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