Choosing Between a Condo, Townhome or Orlando Vacation Homes

If you’re planning a trip to Orlando then one of the first things you’ll have to decide will be what type of housing you’ll stay in. It doesn’t take much to look into rentals near Disney and realize that Orlando hotels are going the best bet. Once you’ve made that decision, there are three main options: Condos, townhomes, and Orlando vacation home rentals. Which one is best for your needs? Read on to learn the main advantages and disadvantages of each option.

The advantages of staying in an Orlando area condo

There are a few advantages to choosing a condo. First and foremost are the amenities. While it will vary based on which condo you choose, in many cases you’ll have access to:

• A community pool (or pools)
• Lovely landscaping
• Plenty of parking

An upscale condo may offer additional, luxurious amenities like:

• Hot tubs
• Video game arcade
• Concierge
• Playgrounds
• Sand volleyball
• Spa amenities

The disadvantages of staying in an Orlando area condo

Of course, it’s not the perfect solution and it’s not right for everyone. The main disadvantages are:

• You don’t get as much privacy as you would if you chose one of the Orlando vacation homes.
• You may not have as much room as you would with a private home.
• You may be able to hear your neighbors.

The advantages of staying in an Orlando area townhome

Many people choose to stay in a townhome near Orlando. In some ways, it can be considered a compromise between an Orlando vacation home and a condo. Some of the advantages include:

• More privacy than a condo
• A wealth of amenities which may include a pool, large kitchen, playground, and more
• Townhomes are often at least two floors which can offer more privacy within the unit as well
• Townhomes can often accommodate larger families than condos can

The disadvantages of staying in an Orlando area townhome

Once again, no housing type is perfect so there are some disadvantages to choosing a townhome. For example:

• They don’t typically offer as much room as an Orlando vacation home would
• You may not have access to as many amenities as you’d find in a condo
• They are still not as private as renting a vacation home
• Less likely to have spa amenities
• Parking can sometimes be a problem

The advantages of staying in an Orlando area vacation home

Finally, we have the Orlando vacation homes. There are many advantages to this option but of course there are drawbacks too. The main advantages are:

• You get total privacy because you’re staying in your own home
• Most Orlando vacation homes come with private pools
• Many have private hot tubs
• Large chef kitchen and full sized fridge and freezer
• Plenty of parking – most vacation homes even have a garage
• Can sleep up to ten people
• Tons of room for everyone including living rooms, dining rooms, and office spaces
• More space than a Disney hotel for a much lower price
• May be pet friendly

The disadvantages of staying in an Orlando area vacation

There aren’t many disadvantages to renting an Orlando but there are a few when compared to condos and townhomes:

• Can cost slightly more than a condo or townhome
• Don’t have on-site management or concierge like some condos and townhomes do

How to find the best condos, townhomes, and Orlando vacation homes

No matter which option you choose, you’ll next have to decide where you rent your home away from home. There are a few things you’ll want to look for to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.

First, make sure that you’re choosing the right location. What good does it do to save a few hundred dollars if it means spending two hours a day in your car? How much is your time worth? The best option is to ensure you’re within 15 minutes of the theme parks. This minimizes your time spent commuting yet gives you a great, affordable price.

Next, make sure that you’re getting the best price. This doesn’t just mean that you’re getting the best price on your actual rent. Take into consideration extras like discounts on theme park tickets, shuttles to the theme parks, parking, etc. You want to take your entire costs into consideration and choose a company that not only offers the lowest prices but guarantees them.

Finally, choose a company that has a reasonable deposit and cancellation policy. You shouldn’t have to pay the entirety of your balance upfront. You also shouldn’t have to lose the entire cost of your reservation if you have to cancel a month before your reservation.

The bottom line: Which is better?

There is no short and simple answer to this. Larger families who want to cook the majority of their meals may find that an Orlando vacation home is the best option. A couple who wants to spend lots of time at their home base and enjoy spa-like amenities may enjoy a luxury condo. The choice is up to you.{{cta('c7d3d538-6262-402a-b1b6-fd9be79c14e5')}}