Awkward Family Photos- Disney World

A compilation of some of the most awkward family photos ever taken at Disney World. Got some good ones? Send them on in!

This is what happens when you ride “It’s a Small World” too many times. . .

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Where’s Waldo’s wife and kids?

 

 

That awkward moment where you realize Rupunzel just might be staring at your butt.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

View hundreds of not so awkward vacation homes for sale near Disney

Because some people are way too cool for Disney. . 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

She tried to tell you nicely that she wanted Cinderella but nobody would listen.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We hope to earn the opportunity of helping you achieve your Orlando investment property goals this year in 2012. For a free, no obligation investment property consultation with our Director of Sales- Lisa Arcia,  please contact us directly at 866-422-6191 and if you have enjoyed this article please consider subscribing to our blog and stay updated on future information.

Photos Courtesy of: AwkwardFamilyPhotos.com, blog.teacollection.com, thatawkwarddisneymoment.tumblr.com

 

Orlando Vacation Home iphone App- Now This Is Just Plain Cool

One of my past clients, Dave Pollock, has recently developed one of the coolest iphone apps I’ve seen for a vacation rental. This nifty little app not only showcases his Sandy Ridge vacation rental home but also contains information on the Orlando area for tourists, which is very convenient for those traveling to the area.  From your iphone you can view photos and a virtual tour on the Blue Jay Way property and if you like it, you can even view the calendar and contact Dave and Lois to book it right from your phone! There is a tab for attractions, local news and even car rentals. My favorite part about the app are the cool Orlando facts that you can read over. . . did you know that Orlando sees an estimated 52 MILLION tourists every year? I didn’t, until I just read it on my iphone. This app is way cool and way handy, every owner and renter should download this into their iphone before traveling to the area. Don’t forget to become a fan of the Pollock’s vacation rental home on Facebook and you check out the iphone app here or download it in itunes. The best part about this app. . . IT’S FREE!

What To Look Out For When Renting a Condo Near Disney World

Condo vacation rentals are a popular option for those not wanting to stay in a cheap and sleazy Orlando hotel but are  looking for a value vacation rental alternative in Orlando. Many of the Orlando condo resorts offer a both five star amenities as well as top of the line decor all for often half the price of a vacation home. When shopping for a vacation condo in Orlando be sure to find out about these five things before booking the unit.  You won’t regret asking these questions.

1. What floor is the vacation condo located on?
It may look fabulous in the pictures and the view may seem incredible but if it’s on the second floor and it’s a five story building you may run into noise issues. The middle floors are usually the nosiest floors to be located on and though they offer a great view, they may not be the best option if you are traveling with a small baby who wakes easily through the night.  The last thing you want to be on your Orlando vacation is sleep deprived!

Orlando Vacation Condos For Sale Under $70,000

2. Does it have an elevator?
In follow up to the question above, if your condo is not on the first or second floor it’s vital to find out if the building has an elevator.  Believe it or not, not all Orlando condo resorts have elevators and you could be stuck walking up three flights of stairs everyday.  That may not seem so bad first thing in the morning but try doing it after you just walked three theme parks all day.  Happy camper? I think not.

3. Is it gated?
Most Orlando condo vacation rental resorts are gated but it doesn’t hurt to ask.  The benefit to being in a gated community is obviously security.  Often times you will get locals looking for a free place to hang out for the day who sometimes utilize the facilities of non-gated communities and it causes the pool areas to get overcrowded.  Go for the gates, you’ll be happy you did in the end.

The 9 Best Kissimmee Vacation Home Communities To Own a Vacation Home In

4. Does it back up to a shopping plaza?
Always ask what your unit backs up to.  Many of the Orlando condo resorts back up to shopping plazas or are built near commercial strip plazas.  This isn’t so bad if you want to be walking distance to a strip plaza but to walk out onto your balcony and watch Uncle Vito dumping the trash out at the local Italian restaurant everyday just won’t feel so glamourous.

5. How close to the pool is the unit?
In an recent post I briefly discussed how important it is to be close to the clubhouse and pool if you plan on using it.  Not only is it a pain in the rear to get into your car and schlep everything in and out everyday just to drive two minutes to the pool it’s more annoying if you’re not renting a car and you have to walk about 10 minutes in the blazing hot peaks of summer which, I promise, will suck the life out of you before you even get to the pool.  Always stay close to the clubhouse if you want an enjoyable vacation!

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Four Features That Set An Orlando Vacation Home Rental Above The Rest

When renting an Orlando vacation home there are specific features you want to look for in that home to get the most value for your money.  Many people who rent a vacation home in Orlando for the first time go at it blind and don’t know what questions to ask when inquiring about vacation rentals.  These are the top four most requested features for an Orlando vacation rental property and for good reason.

1. Distance to the Clubhouse
Ever rent a vacation property located in a neighborhood the size of Texas only to have to walk or drive all the way to the other side just to go to the clubhouse? That’s not fun for anyone especially in the middle of the blazing hot summer and you have to walk.  If utilizing the community clubhouse is a priority for you than by all means make sure the property is located within close walking distance.

2. Pool Heat with South Facing Pool
Pool heat is by far one of the single most requested features in a vacation home during the winter in Florida.  The great thing about Florida is that most of the time in Winter, if you have pool heat, it’s still not too cold to go swimming outside (at least for the snowbirds). If you want to be able to utilize the private pool in winter make sure it has a heater.  There will be an additional charge for pool heat. A South facing pool with get the most sun exposure throughout the day.

Don’t forget to join the waiting list for The Pink Flamingo’s up and coming e-book “Everything You Wish You Knew BEFORE Buying a Florida Vacation Rental Home“

3. Lake or Conservation View: There is nothing more peaceful than waking up every morning, having a hot cup of tea and looking out at your beautiful view of either the lake or nature.  If you’re going to spend the money on a vacation rental you may as well have something with a view.  It’s also a privacy factor for many people, they do not want the neighbors behind them staring at them while they are sunbathing or lounging in the private pool.

4. Updated Furniture: For the love of all things vacation homes don’t get stuck with floral couches! There are many Florida vacation homes out there that look like the furniture has not been updated since the industrial revolution and many of them are charging the same amount in rent as their neighbor who has a modern updated pad complete with a games room and flat screen television.  Always check out a virtual tour of the property before renting to make sure you get a good look at what you will be living in for a week or two.

Important Things You Need To Look For Before Renting an Orlando Vacation House-Part 2

Guest Post by: Dave Pollock

Also Read: Important Things You Need To Look For Before Renting an Orlando Vacation House-Part 1

All About Deposits

After you select an Orlando vacation home, and confirm the dates, you will have to put a deposit on the home. This is normally around $200.00 per week. If you are renting directly from a home owner, they usually accept a certified check, PayPal, or even a credit card. I’m okay with any of these forms of payments. If you use a credit card, you will most likely have to give your credit card number, name, and security code.  Not all people are comfortable giving this out, it’s up to you.  A security/breakage deposit is often also required. It will be around $200.00 and is returned after the house is verified it’s in the same condition as before you arrived. If you cancel your rental, it will cost you the deposit or the full rental amount if it is within a certain number of days before arrival. If you are not a risk taker, consider travel insurance or be prepared to give your neighbor an early Christmas gift. The balance owing is usually due around 35 days before your arrival date. Always read the terms and conditions before you decide to proceed with the rental.

Amenities
I wouldn’t rent a Florida vacation house unless it has the following amenities:  A South facing pool. Trust me, you will want this. I made the mistake once, and never again. If you get a cold snap, the sun can help make up for the colder temperatures. If you find the sun too hot, remember that 99% of the pools are covered by a screen that helps block the sun’s intensity. A covered lanai is also a must. A lanai is basically a part of the patio covered by a roof. This is great for eating lunch shaded from the sun or taking a break watching the kids swim. A games room is also valuable. Games rooms are great for those rainy days or a break from the theme parks. They are usually converted garages, that have such games as air hockey (good for the Canadians eh!), pool, electronic darts, and foosball.  Look for stools or chairs in the home pictures, to chill out and watch the pool game. Bring your laptop with you, because you’ll want the house to have Internet access, preferably wireless. This is great for researching day trips, restaurants, or other activities.  Calling home for free is very convenient. Homes should provide, free long distance calling to the U.S. and Canada.  Not to be forgotten, the basic amenities should be a fully equipped kitchen, cable TV and DVD players in each room, a large screen TV in the great room, stereo, games console, chairs and loungers on the patio, and house alarm.

Plan Ahead!

Before you leave for your trip, make sure you have been provided the required information. This includes the electronic door lock and/or lock box codes, house alarm code and instructions, property management phone number, and driving directions with full house address (great for a GPS). Bring change with you in case you hit a toll on the highway. It happened to me, it was around midnight and I hit a toll with no attendant.  Whoops no change! I kept going and hoped they would see I had a rental car and not fine me. For the record, I never received a ticket. Take note of where the closest grocery store and pharmacy are. The home owner’s house web site should have this. If not, when you get the address of the house, use Google maps to find them.

When you arrive at the home, take a few minutes and do the following: Take a walk around the house and if there is any damage, take a picture and then call the property management company. You don’t want to pay for someone else’s mistake. Take a stroll over to the pool, and if you paid for heat, make sure it feels warm. Take a drive over to the grocery store, which you research earlier right? Pick up food and a few cold ones. While you are at it, hit the pharmacy if you forgot to bring pain killers. Don’t want to make a run to the pharmacy if you have a headache.

After your vacation is over, and you are sporting the sunburn, there are a few things you have to take care of before you leave the home. Normally this involves removing the sheets from the bed, putting the used towels in the bathtub, start the dishwasher, put all trash in garbage can etc. After a few weeks you should also get the security/breakage deposit back, if you didn’t leave that spaghetti sauce on the carpet.

Renting a vacation home is a great way to spend a vacation with family and friends. If you do your homework upfront, you will most likely have a fantastic vacation with wonderful memories and dreams about next year’s trip.

About The Author: Dave Pollock and his wife Lois own a beautiful Davenport vacation home in Sandy Ridge. It’s the perfect retreat for anyone looking for an affordable vacation home with a private pool. The home is located  within a short 15 minute drive to Disney and other Orlando attractions. Consider renting the Pollock’s “Sun Retreat” next time you come to Orlando.  www.OrlandoHouse.me

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Important Things You Need To Look For Before Renting an Orlando Vacation House-Part 1

Guest Post by: Dave Pollock

Many people are turning to renting vacation homes in Orlando instead of the more traditional hotel rentals. Over the last five or six years my family has rented houses in the Orlando and Tampa, Florida area. This past spring we purchased a house in Davenport, Florida. Davenport is just outside of Orlando, 15 minutes from the theme parks.  We are currently renting this house as well as using it for our own personal vacation retreat.

Because I have been on both sides of the fence, renting a home and renting one out, I can give you several tips on renting a vacation home.

Start Your Orlando Vacation Rental Search Early

Six months or more in advance is best. This will take the stress out of renting a  home, especially if it is during the vacation season. The good homes go early, so the sooner you start the better.  The Internet is a powerful tool. Use Google to help your research. You can also search popular web sites such as VRBO
where Orlando vacation homeowners rent directly to customers or use a travel agent to help out.  If you inquire about a vacation rental home, directly to an owner, you should get a timely response, if not move on.
Do not rent an Orlando vacation home that does not have at least 8 pictures showing the exterior and interior of the home. This helps eliminate any surprises you might encounter when you arrive. Who wants to sit on a pink plaid couch or wake up to purple walls! Second to pictures, is a virtual tour which provides video of the home.  If there is no virtual tour provided, consider another home, it’s that important. Also, many home owners have a personal web site of their home which provides additional details of the home and surrounding area.  Not only is the additional information handy, it shows commitment on the owner’s part.

What You Need To Ask

How do you gain access to the home? If you arrive at midnight, do you have to go to a property management office to pick up the key? I’ve read a couple of horror stories where families have had to wait outside all night or rent a cheap motel until the next morning. At a minimum, the home should have a lock box with the key inside. You will be given the lock box code a few weeks in advance. Even better, a door lock with an electronic keypad. This allows you to punch in the code on the keypad, and presto you’re in the house. There should also be a lock box, in case the electronic keypad malfunctions.

Are you provided with a local property management phone number? Who are you going to call if the AC unit fails, the pool heater is not on, or toilet is plugged?  You should be provided with a phone number you can call 24/7. Do not call the phone number outside of normal business hours unless it is a real emergency. If you call after hours, and it’s not an emergency, it will cost you money. The pool heater can wait until the next day!

About The Author: Dave Pollock and his wife Lois own a beautiful Davenport vacation home in Sandy Ridge. It’s the perfect retreat for anyone looking for an affordable vacation home with a private pool. The home is located  within a short 15 minute drive to Disney and other Orlando attractions. Consider renting the Pollock’s “Sun Retreat” next time you come to Orlando.  www.OrlandoHouse.me

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Who Wants a Vacation At The Reunion Resort in Orlando for Free with 20 of Your Closest Friends?

Looks like Nature’s Own has partnered with Reunion Resort in Orlando and will be giving one lucky family a pretty sweet family vacation.  Check out what the lucky grand prize winner wins:

Reunion Bank Owned Property List

1. Round trip airfare for up to twenty (20) people from the major commercial airport nearest the winner’s home to Orlando, Florida

2.  Three (3) Night housing accommodations (at multiple homes as necessary) for up to twenty (20) people (hotel taxes included)

3. One (1) family round of golf (“Event”) for twenty (20) people on one of the three signature courses designed by legends Palmer, Watson and Nicklaus based on course availability

4. Unlimited bicycle rental use for the families stay

5. A family cookout catered by resort for up to twenty (20) with menu to be discussed with winner based on provided menu options from Reunion Resort’s catering team.

Condo Foreclosures in the Reunion Resort

Oh yea and 10 First prize winners get a year’s supply of bread. . . make sure you ask for the kind with no high fructose corn syrup!

So what are you waiting for, go to the website and register today and while you’re here be sure to pop in and see The Pink Flamingo.

Schedule a Free Vacation Home Buyer Consultation