We rarely get requests like this, but have on occasion. If you have detailed pictures and property information on the listing then people should not have to drive by and preview or walk-through the property. It is probably not wise to let strangers into the property so you may need to have a cleaner or on-site manager do a walk through...or install some kind of home security system that could be activated when the property is not being rented.

Munro Murdock

Murdock Vacation Rentals

 Munro Murdock

Murdock Vacation Rentals

"A better way to stay"

Phone (801) 382-7730  Fax (801) 705-3777

PO Box 998, Pleasant Grove, UT, 84062

4bd Ko Olina, HI | 3bd Ko Olina, HI| 3bd Midway, UT

I too think this is a safety issue- not just for your property, but your guests also.

I've had a few similar requests and have turned them down. One person found my home from the map (and picture of the outside of the house) and actually knocked on the door and wanted to see inside WHILE I HAD RENTERS IN! Lucky for me, the guests were return renters & they called me to ask what to do. Of course, I apologized and told them to refuse.

Another time, one wanted to come into the house and sit on the furniture in the den- to see if her father would be comfortable while he watched TV!

Needless to say, I did not respond  to further inquiries from these people- just said my place wouldn't work for them..

One thing I have done is create a short Youtube video of my house. If, after talking with the prospective renter and finding out how serious they really are, I send them the link. It's been a very succesful marketing tool ( and saves my $$ on how many photos I have to pay for on VRBO). I used Photo Story to create it from snapshots -- fun and easy!

Do these people go ask for a tour of a hotel room they'd reserve? I doubt it.

Be careful!

Deb