A vacation rental should be selected basing on the amenities it possesses. If you are renting a holiday home for the first time then you might not be aware of all the amenities. Here is a list of amenities a vacation home must have.
1. Privacy: The property should provide the most needed privacy. For example, provision for a private entrance to let you use the property at anytime of the day.
2. Maintenance of optimum room temperature: there should be sufficient air conditioning provisions to control extreme temperatures. Room temperature should be comfortable to stay.
3. Small kitchen: an easy way to save few bucks on your vacation is by cooking food on your own. Hence, choose a vacation rental with a kitchen.
4. Parking: select a holiday home with ample parking facilities. It is wise to select those with additional parking garage, a driveway or street parking. Never go for cheap vacation homes with very less or no parking. 
5. Kid friendly amenities: if you are out on a family vacation with kids then do not forget to check for kid-friendly amenities. They include kid's activity centre, video games, movie library and a play ground.
Above all, check if the vacation rental is located in a safe zone. Never select those located in college zone or other sensitive areas. You can save time and gas if it is located in a vicinity of the tourist attractions.