Hi everyone,

I am a newcomer and I am planning to rent an apartment in Rome: http://www.vrbo.com/75004. I searched for it on this forum, and found that tedgale rented it two years back. The location seems really good.

The owner asked me to bank wire her the 30% deposit. Is it normal practice? My banker advised me to be very careful.

tedgale, if you happen to read this post, would you recommend the apt?

Thanks a lot

Karina.

Wiring the deposit isn't unusual at all. You may also want to check on SlowTrav to see if it was reviewed there.

I rented an apartment in Venice and had to pay a deposit...done through PayPal which made it easy. Yes, you will often have to pay a deposit, however others will be better able to advise you since this is through VRBO. Any particular reason why you chose this apartment?

Thanks! I will check slowtrav.

travelfan1, I chose the apartment because it is very close to Spanish steps, and it is quite spacious. I do not like the bank wire stuff, though.

Is it the apartment on this thread?
http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...nce-venice.cfm

kybourbon, yes, that's the one. I wish the owner would use paypal.

If you prefer not to use a bank wire, offer to sent an international draft -- your bank issues a check in euros. The cost to you would probably be in the same ballpark as the wire fee.

Ooops, sent too soon.....Or suggest travelers checks in euros that you buy here (at about a 7% markup, so probably not greatly different cost than wire or draft).

Kayd, thanks for the suggestions!

Don't know that apartment but can certainly recommend the street & surrounding area.