So you're thinking about booking a vacation rental directly from an owner in Puerto Vallarta? Smart move!
We've been in the vacation rental business here for years. And honestly? Renting from owners can be an amazing experience. You often get better prices, more personal service, and insider tips you won't find anywhere else.
But there are some things you really need to know before you hit that "book now" button.
Let me break down the 10 most important things to keep in mind when searching for puerto vallarta rentals by owner.
1. Always Verify the Property Is Real
This is HUGE.
Scammers love to copy photos from legitimate listings and create fake ones. It happens more than you'd think.
Here's what I always tell people: Ask for a video call tour. Real owners are happy to show you around. They're proud of their place!
Also, check if the photos look professional but generic. If you can't find any personal touches or the same images appear on multiple sites under different names, that's a red flag.
2. Get Everything in Writing
Never rely on verbal agreements. Ever.
A legit owner will provide you with:
- A clear rental contract
- Written cancellation policy
- Check-in instructions
- Emergency contact information
- Details about deposits and cleaning fees
If someone seems reluctant to put things in writing? Walk away. Seriously.
We always make sure our guests have everything documented before they arrive. It protects both of us!
3. Be Careful with Payment Methods
This one can save you a lot of heartache.
Avoid direct bank transfers to strangers. Once that money is gone, it's gone. You have zero protection.
Instead, look for owners who:
- Use secure payment platforms
- Accept credit cards
- Work through established booking sites with buyer protection
If an owner insists on wire transfers or cryptocurrency only? That's a massive warning sign.
4. Read Reviews Like Your Trip Depends on It
Because it does!
Previous guests will tell you everything. The good, the bad, and the "why didn't anyone warn me about this?"
Look for reviews that mention:
- Cleanliness
- Accuracy of listing photos
- Communication with the owner
- Location details
- Any unexpected issues
No reviews at all? Proceed with caution. Ask the owner for references from past guests.
5. Understand the True Cost
That nightly rate you see? It's rarely the final price.
Ask about these potential extras:
- Cleaning fees
- Security deposits
- Service charges
- Utilities (especially important for longer stays)
- Parking fees
- Pet fees if applicable
We're always upfront about pricing with our condo rentals puerto vallarta. No surprises when you check out!
6. Location Matters More Than You Think
Puerto Vallarta is a spread-out city. Where you stay dramatically affects your experience.
Old Town (Zona Romántica) is where most visitors want to be. It's walkable, has amazing restaurants, and puts you right in the heart of everything.
But here's the thing: "close to the beach" can mean very different things. Always check the exact address on Google Maps. Street view is your friend!
Ask owners specific questions:
- How far is the nearest grocery store?
- Can I walk to restaurants and bars?
- Is there street parking or a lot?
- What's the neighborhood like at night?
7. Check the Cancellation Policy Before You Book
Life happens. Flights get cancelled. Plans change.
You need to know what happens if you can't make your trip.
Some owners offer full refunds up to a certain date. Others have stricter policies. And some won't refund anything at all.
Read the fine print. Ask questions. Make sure you're comfortable with the terms before you send any money.
Pro tip: Travel insurance is always a good idea for international trips!
8. Communication Style Tells You Everything
Pay attention to how the owner responds to your initial questions.
Are they quick to reply? Helpful? Patient with your questions?
Or do they take days to respond with vague, one-word answers?
How someone communicates before your stay is exactly how they'll communicate during your stay. If you can't get a straight answer about wifi speeds now, imagine trying to reach them when the AC stops working at midnight.
We pride ourselves on fast, friendly communication. Check out our Facebook page to see how we connect with our guests!
9. Book Early for Peak Season
December through mid-April is HIGH season in Puerto Vallarta. The weather is perfect. Everyone wants to be here.
If you're planning a winter escape, start looking 3-6 months in advance. The best old town puerto vallarta condo rentals book up fast!
Flexible with dates? You might score last-minute deals even during peak season. But it's risky if you have your heart set on a specific property.
Summer months (May-October) are easier to book. Prices drop significantly. Yes, it's warmer and there's occasional rain. But many travelers LOVE the quieter, more authentic vibe.
10. Ask About Property Management
Here's something most people don't think about: Who takes care of the property?
Some owners manage everything themselves. They're hands-on and available.
Others live far away and have local property managers handle day-to-day stuff.
Neither is necessarily better. But you should know who to contact for different situations.
Questions to ask:
- Who do I reach out to for maintenance issues?
- Is there someone local available 24/7 for emergencies?
- Who handles the cleaning between guests?
- Will anyone check on the property during my stay?
Professional property management usually means higher standards for cleanliness and maintenance. It's a good sign!
The Bottom Line
Renting directly from owners in Puerto Vallarta can be an incredible experience. You often get better value, more personal attention, and properties that aren't available on the big booking sites.
But you've got to do your homework.
Verify everything. Get it in writing. Pay safely. Read those reviews.
We've been helping visitors find their perfect Puerto Vallarta home away from home for years. It's what we love to do!
Have questions about finding the right rental? We're always happy to help point you in the right direction. Whether you book with us or not, we want you to have an amazing time in our beautiful city.
That's what being part of the PV family is all about.
About the Author