While spring break may conjure up images of late-night parties and drinking contests, it doesn';t have to be the case. Many families with small children choose to vacation during this time of year while the kids are off from school, and let's face it, some college students are simply looking for a place to relax. And since spring break is considered a peak season in many beach destinations and ski markets, you have the opportunity to earn some extra dough for these bookings without sacrificing the well-being of your home and your neighbors'; sanity.

How to Fill Your Spring Break Weeks

• Highlight your spring break openings far in advance. Families that only have a one-week window available in the spring are likely to book their trip in advance to ensure that everything is in place for their vacation. Reach out to these travelers by featuring your particular spring break openings in your headline starting in January.

• Select a seasonal thumbnail. Your thumbnail or first photo should really emphasize the main attraction for spring break travelers. If you can';t get a great shot of the view from your home, photograph some sand toys on your balcony or post a photo of your home under a fresh coat of snow.

• Feature your family-friendliness. Chances are, a group of rowdy college kids will not be too interested in your portacrib, high chair and sand toys. Featuring your suitability for small children and your kid-friendly amenities prominently may likely turn away any group of rambunctious spring breakers.

• Designate spring break rates. To avoid confusion, specify the rates you will charge for a designated range of spring break dates. Check the calendars for school districts from which your market attracts travelers, and be sure to include specific dates for which your rates apply; typical spring break rates apply for March and April in most markets.

• Include special events during spring break weeks. Don';t forget to feature concerts or festivals that occur during this popular season. If a traveler is considering a couple of options for their break, they will likely be interested in the activities and entertainment options available in each destination.

How to Ensure Quality Renters

• Watch for groups of adults on the inquiry. If you receive an inquiry for a spring-break week (typically March through April) for a group of adults with no children, put your antennae up.

• Screen your guests over the phone. By speaking to every renter on the phone, you can likely get a sense of who they are, how old they are, and what they plan to do during their visit. (Plus, although it';s rare, it';s a bit easier to tell if someone is lying over the phone than through an email.)

• Remind guests of your condo';s rules and restrictions. If you are unsure about a particular group of guests, you can gently remind them that your HOA enforces strict minimum age and maximum occupancy policies and anyone in violation could be fined or evicted. If an underage traveler was thinking of cheating the system, the consequences of breaking the rules should hopefully scare them away.

• Increase your rates. Remember, spring break is a peak travel season in a good share of vacation rental markets, so it';s fair to charge a little more for these in-demand weeks. Take a look at what other owners in your area charge for these weeks to get an idea of how much to boost your rates. While college students may be looking for a deal, a family may be more willing to pay a little extra to secure accommodations for these highly sought after weeks.

If you do choose to rent to a group of college kids for spring break, consider these guidelines for a little added protection:

• Request a copy of each guest's driver';s license with matching signatures on the rental agreement.
• Require a larger security deposit in the event of excessive damage.
• Ask the guests to provide rental references, a copy of their resume or contact information for a supervisor.

In the gloomy days of winter, spring break may seem like it';s worlds away. However, it';s best to start thinking about your peak season openings early, when you may be more likely to secure the best renters.

How do you handle your spring break inquiries and bookings?

What to Do if Your Busy Spring Season Is Not Booked Tips for getting those last minute bookings!   The Pros and Cons of Renting to College Students Here are some considerations to take into account when deciding whether to welcome young renters.   How to Market Your Vacation Home to Families with Children Tips for attracting groups traveling with young children.   Seven Ways to Make Your Vacation Rental Home More "Kid Friendly" Have you put some thought into making you second home safe for children?

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Christine's Blog: Vacation at My Destin Rental (3/16/09)    Christine is enjoying one of her vacation homes in Destin, but she'll still be responding to inquiries as usual.