We've been communicating with an "Apartments In Barcelona.net" person, and after booking she sent us a confirmation with total amount due up front when we arrive (we expected that) plus "250 euro deposit" which was never mentioned on the website or other emails. I understand this could be a damage deposit which could be returned in full on check-out, but only if this is a reputable agency. Any experience with them/this policy? Many thanks.
Posted by
Bel Air, MD
37 posts
I would email the apartment rental company to clarify. BUT this is not unusual to have a damage deposit. I would get a clarification about how this will be returned since you could lose money in the dollar to euro exchange. I haven't used this firm, but have used VRBO and homeaway.com for booking european apartments. Each renter is a little different as to how they do things.
Posted by
CA, USA
333 posts
Usually a 100 to 500 euro damage deposit is customary for apartments. I've never used that particular agency but have done plenty of these transactions before without a problem.
Posted by
OP
Bellingham, WA, USA
20 posts
Thanks Margaret and Tyson. The other apartments I've rented (in Rome, Florence) didn't require a deposit--just cash upfront on check-in. I usually read the fine print very carefully, but this time I saw that any cancellation, even 30+ days ahead, has me on the hook for 40% of the entire stay, so that is not a good deal.
Thanks for your input, though. Seems like a well-known agency, so hopefully all will be well!