Money Matters

Renting a condo, vacation home or villa, especially abroad, can sometimes include expenses that you may not have anticipated. The best way to determine the true cost of your stay is to ask exactly what is included and exactly what you are expected to cover before you book. Requesting a portion of the property’s “house book,” which lists fees not included in the rental price, is another good way to estimate any extra expenses. Below are a few common extra expenses to ask about before you book.

• Household items

In some countries, such as Switzerland, linens are normally included. Other countries may require you to provide sheets, pillowcases and towels. Other normal household supplies that are not always included at a rental are dish detergent, paper towels, soap, shampoo, toiletries, sponges, toilet paper and trash bags.

• Utilities

You may be required to pay for some or all of the utilities such as gas and electricity. Keep in mind, electricity prices in foreign countries are often much higher than those in America.

• Miscellaneous charges

Stays in some villas, for example French or Italian villas, may have additional charges for air-conditioning, heat, firewood, fresh linens more than once a week and for paying by credit card (paying by credit card can increase the price by three to four percent). You must also pay for any damage to the villa or its contents that happened during your stay.

• Rental and Other Deposits

International rental agencies may accept credit cards, whereas local agencies may not and landlords very rarely do. This means you may have to wire a reservation deposit in foreign currency or purchase a draft in the local currency and send it by airmail. A damage and/or cleaning deposit may also be required upon your arrival.

• Cleaning

A cleaning fee may be included in your rental bill or billed separately. Some rentals may even require you to clean the property personally before you leave.