Staying in a vacation rental in a town away from yours is unlike staying at a hotel. You’ll enjoy the true creature comforts of home, along with enhanced privacy. Plus, there’s a personalized feel about a rental that a name-brand hotel simply can’t replicate. When you stay in another person's house, you should abide by certain etiquette rules as a general matter of goodwill. Here are four important points to keep in mind to ensure you're the best guest you can be.

How to Be a Good Guest When Renting a Vacation Home

1. Keep the Noise Down

If you’re traveling with friends, make it a point to tone down the volume at a reasonable hour. Remember that the homeowner will field all complaints about disturbing behavior, and it can leave them in a very difficult position. Plus, if you like the space, you may want to return in the future, which may not be possible if you cause too much trouble. Maintaining a respectful level of quiet is simply the right thing to do, both for the homeowner’s reputation and for the comfort of the neighborhood.

2. Report Any Issues Immediately

Perform a careful inspection of the property upon arrival. Look around the space for signs of anything amiss, like water damage or a stained surface. Take photographs of anything you see, and make sure images are time-stamped so you can prove you didn’t cause the issue in question. Report this information to the homeowner immediately to ensure there’s no question about the validity of your claim. The same applies if the rental isn’t clean upon your arrival. Letting the owner know gives them a chance to resolve the problem.

3. Leave a Thank You

Always express your gratitude as you leave the rental. Leaving a thank-you note is a simple yet effective gesture that takes virtually no time. Let them know you appreciated staying in their space and that you hope to return in the future. You should also leave positive feedback if you have the opportunity to write a public review. Drumming up new business is a thoughtful way to show your gratitude for a relaxing vacation.

4. Clean Up Before Leaving

A cleaning fee may be included in your rental price, but you should still make an effort to leave the space as tidy as possible. Throw out any old food, make the beds, and wipe down countertops and tables to remove crumbs and other debris.

If you’re looking for a beautiful vacation rental in Orange Beach, AL, reach out to Coastal Properties. This property management company offers a variety of well-appointed, comfortable, and stylish beachfront and oceanfront condos and vacation homes. They offer one-, two-, or three-bedroom rentals, making these spaces perfect for anyone traveling solo or with loved ones. Visit the website for more information, or call (251) 981-4951 to speak with a representative about vacation rental availability.