Even a vacation can be a work related experience.

I was a tenant last week in Naples, Florida. And although rental practices vary by location, many expectations and behaviors are the same.

For example, the owner warned us in advance about major road construction in the neighborhood.  She forwarded notices from the city, with an apology for the unavoidable inconvenience.   I’m glad that we were not caught off guard as we drove up the house- and I really believe it was less of a hassle because we were mentally prepared.

Lesson? Owners and rental agents hate to be the bearer of bad news, yet it makes sense to disclose issues that will ultimately impact the tenant’s use of the property.  The property owner may not have any control over the situation (road work, beach replenishment, nearby construction, etc.) but after a long day of travel, those issues will seem even worse from the tenant’s perspective.

Another observation: we didn’t look through the owner’s welcome book until mid-week when we needed information regarding an appliance.

Thankfully, there were laminated instructions next to all of the TVs (and as with most homes, each TV had a different set up).  The Wi-fi password was prominently posted on the refrigerator.  There was a label on the thermostat to specify the settings for AC.  And there was another laminated note with detailed trash and recycling instructions (although the recycling can was FULL, so obviously the last tenant missed the pick up day).  Does any of this sound familiar?

I sincerely believe tenants want to follow owner’s wishes,  yet the “house rules” should be easy to find.

Notes in the utility room and kitchen will be seen by most guests.  Stickers on a wall of switches may avoid the back yard spot light burning all week.  Anything quirky should be labeled/explained.

We appreciated that the house was clean and well stocked.  The furniture and bedding were all newer. And, there were brooms and cleaning supplies for the crazy sister who cleans on vacation (that would be me).

Overall, a fun week with my sisters…and the bonus of a fresh perspective for the summer rental season ahead.