Re:seasonal rental practice

[HowieT2]

I am about to agree to my first seasonal rental. the owner is asking for half the fee immediately and the remainder before commencement of the term in December. Is this customary?

TIA

[skigal]

Yes it is customary but some owners will negotiate. We had a problem with our unit one year and had to move out mid season as the unit was no longer habitable due to water problems. The owner dragged his feet in returning our rent money. In the end we had to have a lawyer step in to get his attention. It just wasn't as big a deal for the landlord as it was for us and we didn't feel comforable forking over more money to another owner before our original rent was refunded. So...tenant beware. Know your landlord and try to not pay it all up front if possible.

On a more positive note...we have also had many pleasent experiences with seasonal rentals and you will love having a place to call your own all season long.