Tips for Booking Vacation Rental Homes

Renting a vacation home directly from the owner can help you cut costs, gain more space or privacy, and live like a local, especially in exotic places.

Whether you're looking for a ski chalet that sleeps 24, a beachside cabana for two, or an apartment in New York or virtually any other city in the world, it's out there -- and thanks to the Internet, it's easy to find.

You can rent just about anything, anywhere, at most any price point. Indeed, per person, rentals can be cheaper than hotels, and you may save more by making some meals yourself.

Of course, there is some risk involved. You may have to mail a check or provide a credit card number to a stranger. There's the possibility that unexpected events, misinformation or miscommunication could ruin your vacation. ...