Pets

More often than not, most rental companies these days offer at least some properties that are pet friendly. Before you book your accommodation, make sure to ask for that company's specific pet policy and whether or not the property you are looking to book is indeed pet friendly. Each company will have clearly spelled out policies, and rest assured these policies are strictly enforced.

Among the concerns with pets should be the issue of fleas, as they present a major problem during the warms months. Fumigation and pest control will take a chunk out of your deposit, so please be conscious of your pet’s condition. If you decide to roll the dice and ignore pet policies, some agencies will demand your immediate dismissal.

If leaving your pet at home isn't a possibility and you can't find a propety where pets are allowed, local kennels and "doggie daycare" services will look after your cherished companion. Check our Traveling With Pets page for a list of places that have pet-friendly accommodations.

There are a number of rules to follow when renting a beach home from a rental agency. The large majority of these properties are second homes for their owners, and renting them out means trusting their agency to choose responsible renters. Each agency has its own specific policies, and vacationing parties should make themselves aware of these policies and their consequences.

Many area vacation homes require the minimum age of renters to be at least age 21, however some extend that limit to 25, often excepting married couples under that age. Be sure to check with your particular agency prior to setting your heart on a vacation home. Large groups of young renters can often encounter resistance due to damage concerns. Large house parties are discouraged and many rental agreements prohibit them altogether, especially at the smaller, quieter beaches. Breaching this area of your contract can easily result in the forfeiture of your deposit and the instant termination of your rental agreement. The bottom line is being respectful of other people's property, privacy and peace and quiet.

While cleaning services are offered upon checkout for a fee, the agencies expect you to leave no trace of your visit. Often times, a portion of your deposit goes to these services should you fail to leave things as you found them, and the agency is at liberty to determine these fees. As is expected, you should treat your “home away from home” as though it was your own.

While most people own cell phones these days, the majority of area properties have a telephone for your use. Responsible use is expected and often agencies will block outgoing long-distance calls to prevent abuse of phone service.

Vacation rental prices fall in a wide range from $700 to $10,000 (or more) a week, depending on your choice of accommodation, location, luxury factor and season. Bald Head Island, Wrightsville Beach and Figure Eight Island are at the high end. Topsail, Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and the Brunswick Beaches (Oak Island, Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach and Sunset Beach) offer a broader array of less-pricey accommodations, but also have their share of high-end properties.

Most agencies require a deposit, and there are various stipulations in the agreement that you need to be familiar with. For example, a state/county tax of 7 percent and, depending on the location, a room tax ranging from 1 to 6 percent are added to the cost. A deposit of 50 percent is generally required to confirm reservations. Major credit cards are usually, but not always, accepted. Check with the individual rental agency for required methods of payment. Some accept personal checks provided they arrive 30 to 60 days in advance of your arrival. Rental rates are subject to change without notice. Winter rates may be significantly less.