If your summer vacation is looking more like a summer staycation there are some wonderful options for cottages and lake houses right here in Canada. If it’s your first time renting, consider the following check list when choosing a cottage that is the right fit for your family:

  • Is the cottage accessible by road or is it water access only?
  • Is it on an ocean or a lake? Is there a sand beach or will you have to navigate a rocky shoreline to get into the water?
  • What amenities are you looking for? Remember this is not a home but there may be some items you don’t want to do without, like a microwave, air conditioner or washing machine and dryer. Does it come with water toys, cooking spices, bed sheets and towels? Don’t assume anything is included.
  • Where are the closest food and liquor stores?
  • Are pets welcome? Do they have supplies for your pet like a water bowl or food bowl or do you need to bring your own.
  • Is there phone or internet. Many cottages are in areas with poor cell phone reception.
  • If you’re renting a cottage in a ritzier area, you may have access to nearby country clubs, golf courses, pools or tennis courts. Talk to the owner about the amenities in the area and find out if you’ll have access.

Once you find the cottage that is right for you, you will need to sign a contract or agreement with the owner.

Things you should be looking for in a contract include; insurance coverage, inclusions and exclusions (for example, is all the recreation equipment available for your use?) and whether the cost of utilities is included in the cost.

Try and have things like gas, electricity, firewood, water and internet access included in the overall price. It’s also worth asking whether a cleaning fee is included. Specific the arrival and departure times and if you have provided a safety deposit to the owner you'll want to make sure there is no reason for the owner to withhold that deposit from you after you've returned.

Cottage rentals typically fall under two categories, private and agency rentals. Renting from an owner is more common than the later but there are agencies that own multiple cottages and rent them out on a consistent basis. If you’re looking for a personal touch, an agency won’t be the right fit for you. However, if you prefer the look, feel and service of a hotel, an agency rental might be more suitable. Some websites to check out are www.homeaway.ca or www.vrbo.com. Some that are targeted specifically for cottage rentals include www.canadastays.com, www.cottageportal.com and www.cottagesincanada.com