Can You Rent a Vacation House at 18?

By Robert Palmer

Are you planning a getaway with your friends but worried that you might not be able to rent a vacation house because of your age? If you’re 18 or younger, finding a rental property can be difficult, as most property owners require renters to be at least 21 years old.

However, there are some options available for those who are under the age limit. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at whether you can rent a vacation house at 18.

What Are the Requirements for Renting a Vacation House?

Before we dive into the question of whether or not you can rent a vacation house at 18, it’s important to understand what the typical requirements are for renting any kind of property.

  • Age: As mentioned earlier, most rental properties require renters to be at least 21 years old.
  • Income: Property owners want to ensure that their tenants will be able to pay rent on time and in full.

    For this reason, they often require proof of income before renting out their properties.

  • Credit score: A good credit score is usually required when renting any type of property. This shows that you’re responsible with your finances and are likely to pay your rent on time.
  • Rental history: Finally, many property owners will ask for references from previous landlords to ensure that you’ve been a responsible tenant in the past.

Can You Rent a Vacation House at 18?

The short answer is: it depends. While most vacation rental properties have an age requirement of 21 years old or older, some may allow younger renters with certain conditions. Here are some ways you may be able to rent a vacation house even if you’re under the age of 21:

Vacation Rental By Owner (VRBO)

One option to consider is renting a vacation home through VRBO. This website allows property owners to list their vacation homes for rent, and renters can search for properties that meet their specific needs. Some listings on VRBO may allow renters under the age of 21, but you’ll need to check each individual listing for age restrictions.

Airbnb

Airbnb is another popular platform for finding vacation rentals. Like VRBO, each listing on Airbnb has its own set of rules and requirements, so you’ll need to check each one individually to see if they allow renters under the age of 21.

Book Through a Parent or Guardian

If you’re not able to find a vacation rental property that allows renters under the age of 21, consider asking a parent or guardian to book the rental on your behalf. They can act as the primary renter and add you as an additional guest on the reservation.

Conclusion

Renting a vacation house at 18 can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. By considering options like VRBO and Airbnb or enlisting the help of a parent or guardian, you may be able to find a rental property that meets your needs. Just be sure to read all rental agreements carefully and understand any restrictions before signing on the dotted line.