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Money Talks News: Avoid a vacation rental ripoff

The vacation rental business is booming. But you know what else is booming? Vacation rental ripoffs.
(Source: Money Talks News)

Money Talks News - When you head out for vacation this year, where would you rather stay, in a cramped motel room or in a full-sized house with a pool?

The answer is obvious and that's why the vacation rental business is booming. But you know what else is booming? Vacation rental ripoffs.

There are several variations on this theme, but one common one is really simple: The crook just tells you they own the vacation rental when they actually don't. Unfortunately some will wire thousands for a deposit then when they finally show up with their suitcases in hand and they find out they've duped.

So how do you avoid the ultimate vacation nightmare?  Well first there should be a discussion with the owner the agent.

Asking for proof of the property with them in the picture is a way to make sure the picture matches the pictures that have been posted online.

Next, it's preferable to work with someone who have been in the business for awhile. Check sites such as the Better Business Bureau as well as reviews.

And when it's time to pay, there's only one way; credit cards. No debit cards, no money orders, no wire transfers, no exceptions.

And as always and with most things in life, beware of things that seem too good to be true. Trust your gut. If it's too cheap relative to others, there's a reason.

Now, if you find a place that you like, rent it again, that way you'll know what you're getting and you know that landlord, who may give you a discount.

For more information and help on finding a perfect vacation rental, head to the Money Talks News website and search for  "vacation rentals."

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