Vacation Rentals on Sale … If You Know Where to Look

With vacation rentals being a [% 2846232 | | hot topic %] right now, I wanted to let you know there are additional ways to save on these already-affordable accommodations. Many third-party suppliers have contracted with property owners and managers to list their latest deals online. Offerings can be worldwide or not too far from your own backyard. Be flexible when searching these specials, as many are last-minute or are only available during a destination’s low season.

Here is a recent sampling of available promotions; check back often to get the latest deals.

• HomeAway currently offers deals at properties in California, Florida, Hawaii, and Mexico. At press time, deals included discounted rates of $700 per week for a one-bedroom condo in Panama City Beach, Florida; 40 percent off a studio condo in Waikiki; and a sale rate of $85 per night at a two-bedroom condo in Puerto Vallarta.
• Rentalo‘s special offers include deals in the U.S., Australia, Europe, Canada, the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America. The latest offerings include 33 percent off a beachfront condo in La Jolla, California; 26 percent off a home in Crescent Lakes, Florida (near Kissimmee), and 18 percent off an oceanfront home in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
• VacationRoost‘s deals currently feature a fifth-night free deal at properties in Big Sky, Montana; 25 percent off rentals in Crested Butte, Colorado; and a fourth- and seventh-night free offers in Cabo San Lucas.

If you’re partial to a specific vacation rentals listing site, but no deals are posted there, don’t be discouraged. Remember: You can always ask the individual owners or managers directly about what they’re willing to offer. In today’s tenuous economic climate, managers and owners are willing to go the extra mile to get your business. Ask your property manager or owner if any discounts are available, or if there are value-added extras that could be included in your vacation price. You may be surprised at how far your travel dollars can go.

Have you seen a great vacation rental deal out there, or do you have a favorite savings strategy? Share your tips by submitting a comment below!