(my Parisian flat last year via Valerie on Airbnb)

As I sit here finishing up my plans for this summer I am a wee bit frustrated. I have my flight book, my school booked, my travel dates planned, andddd no place to live. I have literally been checking every apartment rental website each morning in hopes the God’s put forth the “perfect place.” And today was going to be the day I found it. However, here I am a few weeks out and while I have some very viable options I haven’t found the perfect apartment yet. I did believe I had found it yesterday and even put in the offer but she decided to stay in Paris for the summer. Really bia. Give me your flat!!!!

One thing I have learned while searching every rental website imaginable is hidden fees. While you think you found the deal of the century it is always very important to look at any realtor fee, cleaning fee, deposit, and so on. I had no idea all of the in’s and out’s that go into utilizing these online tools. Since the first time I used Airbnb (for this trip) went so fabulously well I decided to put down into words what I have learned.

Always Add a Filter
Filters are your best friend. But really. The entire time I was finding all of these “amazing” Parisian flats I realized they were a pull-out sofa and there was no washer. If I can find a flat with a bed and a washer I will try my hardest. To make it easy I narrowed down every “noncomprable” on my list and checked it off the filter. Must have wifi: check. Must have a bed: check. And so on. It will take your search from thousands down to a few – which is very helpful. It is also smart to add the filters for your max price and area. Falling in love with a flat that is incredibly outside your budget is never fun. Trust me, I have done it. Save time and heartache by only looking at places within your means.

This Isn’t Your Home nor a Hotel
Seems obvious. However, on a lot of reviews I read people do not seem to grasp this idea. What do you mean they don’t have a Nespresso machine? No, robe and slippers? What kind of place is this? These amenities may or may not be included in the description of the apartment. It all depends on what the host has to offer. Make sure you read and re-read everything which is on the listed description so you are not disappointed upon arrival.

Engage
Airbnb makes it extremely easy to ask questions and engage with your potential host. Utilize this. I send questions to each flat I am interested in. Is your check-in/out policy flexible. What does the security deposit include? How often do you check on the place? Is the cleaning fee set? Every question you can think of, ask. It is better to over-communicate initially than be  confused or angry upon check-out. I also love to ask for local advice. Where do you go shopping? Where is the best Italian restaurant. Where is the nearest cafe? They always have very insightful answers which will help you adjust to your quarters quicker and make your trip even more enjoyable.

Feel Protected
A lot of people are weary of booking an apartment online through a third party. I agree with a lot of this anxiety. Searching for this Parisian flat has made me realize how many websites out there are not reliable. I was about to book an apartment through a certain website but had a nagging feeling to search for their reviews. Come to find out there is no protection for the renter/rentee. Apparently renters were  never getting their deposits back even though the flat was left in immaculate shape. THIS IS HUGE. Always make sure you are renting from a reliable website (like airbnb) which protects both parties. Another great thing about Airbnb is they verify each listing. You must adhere to very strict reviews and verification process to list and to rent. The best advice I can give you is to reach out and get to know the host before renting. This will help you feel more comfortable going forward. If you have further fears Airbnb has an entire section to help answer your questions.

Always Review
When your trip is over review your experience. Honesty is key but remember to not pick out every little detail. Future travelers want to know if the apartment was described properly, was it noisy, was the host honest, did you enjoy your stay, and if the area was good. Taking part in the “community” of airbnb will help your rating and future travels!

** Also, I am being featured on Artizone Dallas’ blog this week! I absolutely love their services and have enjoyed getting to know them over the years! To read my feature click here.