We are looking for a unique villa or farmhouse for (6) people/(3) bedrooms in Tuscany to rent in late September. Must be centrally located near Florence and Sienna.<BR>Would like to book direct...any suggestions?

I can recommend several agencies, including rentvillas.com and regencyintapts.com and domani-usa.com - - from personal experience.<BR><BR>The whole idea of "booking direct" is a misplaced notion. As an owner told me at Lake Garda last fall - - the agency I use brings me a steady flow of customers, secures the deposits and makes my life great as an owner - - why would I want to stiff them to deal directly with you? How many rentals are you going to bring me a year? with how ironclad a guarantee that I will get paid (something) if you're a no-show?<BR><BR>Think about it. Agencies show owners loyalty and get it back in return. I've stopped insulting owners by asking if I can come back to their proprty "booking direct". I feel silly that I ever asked, now that I understand their viewpoint.<BR><BR>Best wishes,<BR><BR>Rex<BR><BR>

We have rented direct and through agencies. It is possible and there are several websites to do it. We have used www.holiday-rentals.com and www.ownersdirect.co.uk. It may be riskier but I am not a firm believer that ALL agencies add value. Some do without question.<BR><BR>Usually, you pay 12 weeks in advance. They may have a representative on the premises or they may be there themselves. I would encourage you to get references and perhaps check out www.slowtrav.com for ideas. They have a great board for recommendations from travelers like us.<BR><BR>Booking direct is often less expensive. If you do decide to go with an agency, many villas are listed with several agencies with different prices. Different prices may bring different levels of service so just be aware of what you are paying for.<BR><BR>Have fun!<BR>Jan

I heartily second Jan's recommendation about the www.slowtrav.com and www.slowtalk.com sites. There's LOTS of info there about rentals in Tuscany. The sites are noncommercial and lovingly moderated.

Try La Bella Toscana.com or any of the places on slowtrav.com. Places form teh Parker Company are supposed ot be nice, but more on the $$$ side.

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