Transaction method:
If it looks like this might work out for you, we generally handle things as follows: We ask for a deposit of about 1/3 of the rental amount in the form of a check that we hold uncashed until the rental has been consummated and we can see that the place hasn't been reduced to wreckage, at which time we either return it to you or rip it up, as you prefer. (Fortunately, we haven't yet had an issue with the deposit). The actual rental amount itself we ask for a couple of weeks before you arrive.
Disclaimer of liability:
Though we of course keep the house in good shape, we do like to make clear to renters that they rent it 'as is' and that we don't want to be held liable for any slips and falls, robberies, earthquake damages/injuries, etc. -- so any rental is subject to the following:
*** The owners do not assume any liability for loss, damage or injury to persons or their personal property during the rental. Renters, for themselves, their guests, and their respective heirs and assigns, release and discharge the owners, and hold them harmless from, any claims by reason of any injury or loss that occurs to the renters or their guests in connection with their occupancy of the premises. ***
