Outer Banks Rental Realty Companies: Which One Is Right for You?
The Outer Banks is a popular vacation destination, and there are many rental companies to choose from. If you're planning a trip to Hatteras Island, here are some of the largest rental realty companies in the Outer Banks:
The problems with these larger Outer Banks rental companies is often the same. Read on to learn more..
Large vs. Small Rental Realty Companies
There are pros and cons to both large and small rental companies. Large companies typically have more properties to choose from. However, they can also be much more impersonal, and you may have to deal with a lot of bureaucracy if you have any problems. For example, when you call the Realty for issues, you are often transferred to different departments such as sales, changing an existing lease, maintenance, housekeeping, etc. This can be frustrating, especially when people at the company are unable to answer your questions.
The companies above manage hundreds of vacation rentals. As an owner and previous client of some of the above rental realty companies, I can tell you first hand that even owners get frustrated when they can't reach the right person at the rental realty. It then takes time to transfer to the right person, wait for them to contact you back, etc. Guests often experience this same frustration.
Small companies, on the other hand, are often more personal and attentive to their guests. They may also be more flexible with their policies, and they're more likely to know the ins and outs of the local area. Small company prices are also typically better due to less overhead.
Large Realty Rental Prices
As you would expect, larger rental realty companies come with higher prices. This is to pay their overhead for additional staff needed. More staff sounds great until you need something done and end up spending your time tracking down the right person, finding their contact information, waiting on hold, waiting for them to contact you back, etc. This is akin to contacting your cable company: it rarely ends with a pleasant experience.
Vacasa Outer Banks Realty
Vacasa, the largest of these Rental Realty companies, has the worst reputation. Hatteras Island Vacation Rentals purchased Looney Dunes, an oceanfront 8 bedroom home in Waves, NC which was managed by Vacasa. Most guests inherited with the home already had complaints about Vacasa before they even arrived at their vacation home. Hatteras Island Vacation Rentals now manages Looney Dunes and strives for the best in customer satisfaction.
Vacasa manages thousands of homes. This goes to show that the larger the company, the harder it is to provide good customer service.
Which Realty Is Right for You?
So, which type of company is right for you? It depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for more properties to pick from, then a large company may be worth the risk. But if you're looking for a more personal and flexible experience, then a small company like Hatteras Island Vacation Rentals may be a better fit.
Why a Small Rental Realty Will Often Result in a More Enjoyable Vacation
There are a few reasons why a small company will often result in a more enjoyable vacation.
Small rental realty companies are more likely to:
- be familiar with the local area. They can recommend the best restaurants, shops, and activities for your family. They can also help you plan your itinerary and make sure you have everything you need for your trip.
- be flexible with their policies. If you have to change your plans, they're more likely to be able to accommodate you. They're also more likely to be understanding if something goes wrong during your vacation.
- provide a personal touch. They'll take the time to get to know you and your family, and they'll go out of their way to make sure you have a great vacation.
Hatteras Island Rental Realty Final Thoughts
If you're planning a trip to Hatteras Island, go with a small rental company. You'll get a more personal and enjoyable experience, and you'll be supporting small, local businesses.
Here are some additional tips for choosing a rental company:
- Read online reviews. This is a great way to get an idea of what other guests have experienced.
- Ask for recommendations from friends and family. They may have had a great experience with a particular company.
- Contact the company directly. Ask them about their policies and procedures, and see how responsive they are to your questions.
With a little research, you can find a small rental realty that will make your Outer Banks vacation unforgettable.