The different types of short term rentals and why you should book directly with property owners to save big!

i) Rental arbitrage -Economical lodgings that provide 'the basics'. Don't expect your host to know everything there is to do nearby. Basically they are renting the home from a landlord across a long term lease and then subletting it to you. Rarely does the host live nearby. Many rental arbitrage hosts have hundreds of properties so if you have a problem in your rental, you may not get the level of service you might get. Ikea/Hotel like furniture.

2) Motels - Best for stays that are 1-2 days. Often have cleaning staff onsite to provide more towels, toilet paper, trial size care products. Best for those traveling through a city on their way to somewhere else, or to stay when you don't need extra amenities like a kitchen or laundry appliances.

a) Private rooms in host's residence offer a economical option for singles. Many offer a private bath and/or access to the additional amenities travelers cannot find in hotels or motel settings.

b) Whole Home Rentals, often referred to as a 'vacation rental' are the perfect place to maintain physical distancing in these times. Privacy plus unique outdoor spaces, a full size kitchen, the ability to work from 'home' while staying isolated are all a huge plus of a whole home rental.

ii) Property Management companies - Tend to be more upscale and are more expensive since they charge the property owner a commission fee to oversee the management of your reservation. Although they may know things about the local area, they will not likely be very familiar with the smaller details within the home. Expect the home to provide 'basic amenities' without much thought given to unique or special touches.

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