Length of Stay
Summer rentals usually require a minimum stay of one week and generally run from Saturday to Saturday. Some rentals begin on another day of the week, however, especially on Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket. Off-season stays or smaller homes or apartments are generally more flexible, with many homes available to rent for 2-3 night stays.
Check-in/Check-out Time
Check-in time is most often early to mid-afternoon with check-out time mid- to late morning.
Additional Fees
Any additional fees, such as for cleaning, pets, or linens, will be included on the listing. Although WeNeedaVacation does not charge any booking fees, realtors and property managers often charge an administrative fee.
Each listing posts the State and Local taxes. The tax for all Cape rentals is 14.45%, between 9.7% and 11.7% on Martha’s Vineyard, and 11.7% on Nantucket.
Security Deposit
Most homeowners require a refundable security deposit for a rental home. Check with the homeowner for details. The security deposit is usually due to be returned within a month after tenancy. Rental managers often charge a nonrefundable damage waiver.
Lease
It is in your best interest, as well as that of the homeowner, to have a signed lease that spells out the details of your tenancy, including information about the security deposit, schedule for payment, and the cancellation policy. Be sure to look over the lease prior to sending any payment.
Many homeowners and listing agents require at least half of the rent due at the time of lease signing, with the remainder of the rent due one to three months prior to tenancy.
In Season, Shoulder Season, and Off Season
"In season" generally refers to all the weeks in July and August, the “shoulder season” usually includes the months of May, June, September, and October, and the off season runs from November through April. Most homeowners offer different prices for in season, shoulder season, and off-season. Check the listing’s calendar or with the homeowner or listing agent for details.
Book Early
Because of the tremendous popularity of the Cape and Islands as a vacation destination, we encourage you to begin your search early for a rental property. Many rental homes are often booked for the summer by the end of February. This is particularly true with beachfront and waterfront properties. Be sure to plan ahead if you need to accommodate a greater number of guests, as larger homes tend to book early.
Utilities
Most short-term rentals include all utility costs.
Household Supplies
Unless otherwise noted, most rental homes supply kitchen utensils, dishes, and some cleaning supplies. You are expected to supply your own linens and towels unless the listing specifies that the owner will supply them via "linens included" in the amenities section. You can find linen rental companies in our Home Services Directory.
Prior to Your Vacation
Before you leave for your vacation home, be sure you have precise directions; a key (or arrangements for picking up the key) to the home; and the phone number of the homeowner, listing agent, or property manager.
Upon your arrival
If anything is amiss at the home when you arrive, contact the owners or their agent immediately. Being informed of any issues only after your departure is of no benefit to either you or the homeowner.
Homeowners Are Responsible for Their Own Listings
All of the information found on the individual property pages has been provided by the property owner or listing agent. WeNeedaVacation is not responsible for the accuracy of the content provided. If, however, you notice a discrepancy, please notify us so that we can investigate and request that the lister rectify the situation.
Pets
Use the Advanced Search to find vacation rentals that will allow pets. Dogs are more likely to be accepted than cats unless the cats are declawed. In some cases, you will be required to pay an additional pet deposit.
Be sure to treat your pet with a flea and tick preventive at least a week prior to your vacation.
Rental owners appreciate pet parents who offer to bring sheets to cover upholstered furniture.
Always keep your dog on a leash (or under voice control if at an off-leash facility) and clean up after him, both at the rental property and elsewhere.
Keep in mind that the majority of beaches do not allow dogs in season.
Learn about
dog-friendly beaches and great locations to walk your dogs.