Fractional Guide – Villa Rentals

WHAT IT IS

Villa rentals are an emerging, extremely popular vacation strategy, allowing families to reside in high-end residences, usually with the concierge, limousine service, and culinary amenities of a high end hotel. These villa rentals are extremely popular in Europe, and are becoming equally so in the US.  Often included in daily or weekly pricing is the maid and concierge service.  Private chefs, tours of the area by a dedicated local destination guide are usually extra. Often, larger families with nannies reside at these villas as there is ample room, both inside and outside for everyone.

WHAT IT ISN’T

It is not a “destination club,” where you pay a membership deposit and annual dues. Nor is it a “private residence club” or “fractional residence” where you pay for a deeded interest to become part owner in the club or property. It is purely a rental, with services included or added in a menu of options.  It is not a timeshare where you buy space for a certain time each year. It functions on the high end hotel/resort model, where you pay for time spent at the villa. No contracts, deeds, or any commitments other than the time you reserve in advance and the service you ask for when reserving the time.

HOW MUCH IS IT?

A huge range — from $1000 per week to $325,000 per week, on average between $4000- $5000 a day,  depending on locale, square footage, and whether it is high or low season and the type of amenities preferred.

INCLUDES

Depending on agency or firm, villa rentals may include butler, maid, cook, driver and cleaning services.

PLAYERS

HomeAway

Sanctuary Villas

Suzanne Cohen & Associates

The Society

Villazzo VillaHotels

TOP DESTINATIONS

Tuscany | Provence | Marbella | Miami | Paris | Croatia | Cabo San Lucas | Aspen | Greek Islands | Napa Valley

QUESTIONS TO ASK

-  Is there a virtual tour of the property?

-  What is included in the rental price?

- Is the Villa child-proofed?

- Are pets allowed?

- Is there a grocery store nearby?

- Are there restaurants in the area?

- How often does maid service come

- Is there construction or extraneous noise nearby?

- Does the owner live on or near the property?

- Are all of the appliances in good working order?

- Is the Villa fully-equipped, linen- wise (sheets and towels) for residence?

THE FINAL WORD

- Ask for references

- Book early

- Get everything in writing