Part 2 - Mastering the art of Rates and Flexibility

Hold up! Before we dive into part two, a fantastic tip was just brought to my attention that's too good not to share...

Simply right-click on the main image of the property you are interested in and use Google Lens. This can often help you find the same photo on other parts of the internet, potentially leading you to the owner's website or Facebook page for direct booking. Happy searching! 🔍

Now on to part 2...

Mastering the Art of Rates and Flexibility:

Just like airline tickets, vacation rental rates fluctuate based on demand. Nearly all short-term rental owners adjust their pricing for seasons, weekends, and midweek stays. Interestingly, in Mentone, our bookings remain strong throughout the year, making significant seasonal rate differences less common. However, we do observe quieter periods in January (the post-holiday lull) and August (as families gear up for the school year), and you might find slightly more favorable rates during these times.

The most consistent opportunity for savings lies in midweek stays – Sunday through Thursday nights. These are often priced 8-10% lower per night compared to the more popular and quickly booked weekends (Friday and Saturday).

Keep a watchful eye on booking calendars as your travel dates approach. Last-minute cancellations or date changes can sometimes lead owners to reduce rates on those newly available weekends to ensure they don't go unbooked. Unlike coastal destinations that often see bookings months in advance, Mentone, being a popular "drive-to" destination, typically sees reservations made within a few weeks to a couple of months of the travel date. This means owners are more likely to adjust rates closer to the date if a weekend remains open.

Don't forget to check the owner's Facebook page and Google Business page for exclusive "deals" and discounts! Professional owners, like us, often advertise special offers, packages, and discounts on these platforms and their websites. When you reach out to book directly, be sure to mention where you saw the special price!

Regarding special discounts (senior, military, etc.): The reality is that the rising costs of operating vacation rentals in the post-pandemic era have made these less common. However, it never hurts to politely inquire, especially if you are a returning guest. You might find an owner willing to offer a small reduction, though don't expect this during peak seasons, holidays, or popular weekends.

Payment and Peace of Mind:

Professional owners offer various payment options, but it's crucial to prioritize your security. Common methods include business Venmo, Business PayPal, Stripe, or a secure third-party credit card processor. While some owners might suggest "friends and family" options on PayPal or regular Venmo to avoid fees, be aware that these methods offer limited or no recourse if issues arise. If you have a trusted relationship with the owner from previous stays, you can make your own informed decision.

What if Your Dream Rental Only Books Through Platforms?

It's important to understand that owners cannot waive or adjust the guest fees charged by VRBO or Airbnb. These fees are separate from the owner's nightly rate and are collected by the platform. Therefore, don't expect an owner to discount their rates by 15% to compensate for these fees. Additionally, owners pay commissions (or significant annual fees) to these platforms, making further discounts unlikely. Ultimately, you'll need to weigh the allure of that "dream rental" against the additional cost.

As Benjamin Franklin wisely said, "Wealth is not his that has it, but his that enjoys it." Choose the option that allows you to enjoy your Mentone vacation without breaking the bank!

Do you have any other brilliant tips for saving money on vacation rentals or travel in general? Share them in the comments below – let's help each other make the most of our adventures!"