I had the same concern and I'll tell you what I did which worked for me. The first year I paid the extra $ and went through DownHome Properties. It was more expensive, but I felt secure, and the place was well appointed, and when there was an issue with plumbing it was dealt with quickly and efficiently. That was a 3 month rental.
During that 3 months I found a private renter, who I got to meet an walk through the place with. That made me feel more secure, when I rented from him. It was considerably less expensive, but not as well appointed. Not as many towels, dishes etc not as complete or as nice.
There was still some risk, but I felt a lot better about it than I would have just sending a wad of cash and hoping that someone and some place would be there when I showed up.
Good luck.
|