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Renting with FHS
How do I book a property?
It’s easy! Just fill out the booking request form on this web site, or you can call us on the phone at 206.325.0132 or send an e-mail to info@francehomestyle.com. From then on, the ball is in our court. We’ll do the work for you.
Are there fees and costs besides rent?
We make a point of giving clients all-inclusive prices for regular bookings, to keep the process as simple as possible. However, we do charge an additional $40 for Sunday arrivals, and $100 for arrivals on French holidays or after 8pm, since you are personally met at the apartment by one of our representatives. Any further exceptions will be discussed with you in advance.
Do currency fluctuations affect your rates?
Yes. In the event of a significant change in currency rates between your first payment and your subsequent payment(s), we will adjust your rate. We use the median “ask” rate as shown on www.oanda.com. If the dollar fluctuates from the rate indicated on your rental agreement we will increase or decrease your second payment by the same percentage. No adjustment is made on amounts already paid.
Do rentals always start on a Saturday?
In Paris, no, you are free to arrive when you choose. And we can prorate extra nights above one week. Our weeks, by the way, have seven nights. In the country and mainly in high season, yes, in most cases. There are exceptions and we do our best to direct you to the properties with more flexible owners to accommodate your needs.
What is your check-in time?
Outside Paris, check-in time is 4pm. However, in the event that your property is not occupied the day you arrive, you are free to check in anytime. We will let you know if early check-in is possible.
In Paris, check-in times vary, but we’ll do our best to arrange a check-in time that is convenient for you. It is important that you give us your correct arrival time and keep us updated on this, so our representative can greet you.
Can we rent for three nights?
Our minimum rental period is seven nights. We prorate extra nights. In High Season in the country, bookings are per entire weeks. If you need less, we will direct you to a B&B or try to find a flexible owner.
Do you have inexpensive rentals?
We have a full range of prices. We always try to accommodate everyone’s budget, from poor students to millionaires! However, we are not the least expensive on the market because of the quality of our properties and the added value of our service.
Has someone from France: Homestyle seen the property I'm interested in?
Claudette has examined most of the properties herself. Unless a property has just been listed, all properties are inspected by a member of France: Homestyle’s team.
Would you stay there yourself?
Yes! As a matter of fact, we send our family members, friends, and—sometimes—ourselves! Of course, we haven’t been able to stay at all of the properties, but previous clients have. We rely on their feedback.
Booking Details
When and how much do we pay?
The reservation deposit is 50% of the rent, due when you make the reservation. The balance is due thirty days prior to occupation of the rental property, except for long term bookings or special arrangements. We take VISA, Master Card, American Express and personal checks.
France: Homestyle will send you a signed Accommodation Agreement and specific information on how to gain access to the rental property.
Do you request a security deposit?
A refundable security deposit, compatible with the value of the property (typically $1000) is due prior to arrival by separate check. We won't deposit the check unless your party is responsible for damage to the property during your stay. If you are unable to pay by check, we'll use your credit card.
What is the security deposit used for?
The security deposit is used to reimburse owners in the unlikely event furniture, a mattress or other objects become damaged. This rarely occurs. If necessary, the security deposit may also be used to pay for telephone expenses. Virtually all security deposits are fully refunded. We return security deposits within 2 weeks after you have left the property.
What is your cancellation policy?
We cannot refund the amounts paid (50% upon reservation, or the balance 30 days prior to arrival). Most of the money is sent to the owner immediately. We try hard to rent the same dates to another party, and then France: Homestyle can reimburse you, but we can't promise it will happen. We will ask the owners to apply the amounts they received for a cancelled reservation to future dates within a year, but there is no guarantee.
Do you recommend travel insurance?
We encourage our clients to buy Trip Cancellation Insurance. We’ll send you an insurance brochure by mail (from CSA, a California company). Then you talk to them directly.
We also suggest you check your Home Owner or Renter Liability Insurance to make sure you are covered while staying in a property abroad.
If you are not already covered against damage caused to your rental property abroad, you may want to buy coverage from ADAR. For 3% of your rental fee you can obtain cancellation insurance as well as personal liability insurance. Go to their website for more details and to purchase the insurance from them directly.
They offer up to €1,525,000 coverage for flooding, fire, or explosion, and up to €2,500 for damage to the owner's belongings.
After You Book
Are linens included?
Yes, linens are provided, and the cost is included.
How do we get the keys to the property?
Most often you will be met on-site by a France: Homestyle representative or the owner who will show you the place and give you the keys. In some cases, we will mail you the keys before you leave.
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