How do you rent a private house?

The exact method for renting a private house depends on the length of time you wish to rent the house. In most cases you search on a classifieds site like Craigslist.org or short-term rental sites, such as Airbnb.com or VRBO.com, and work out an agreement with the home's owner.

If you are looking to rent a private house as your main residency, the first thing you need to do is determine your price range and the neighborhood in which you want to live. Craigslist.org allows you to view rental listings within specific cites and narrow down to certain neighborhoods within the city. Once you choose the private home that suits your needs, you need to contact the landlord and arrange a viewing. During the viewing, you can obtain a rental application from the landlord, which asks for information such as your past rental history and proof of income. Once you are approved, you set a move-in date with the landlord and sign a legal rental agreement.

For a short-term or vacation rental, sites such as Airbnb.com allow you to reserve occupancy in a private home during a specific set of days. It is up to the home owner to determine the exact methods of payment and giving you access to the home.