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Bargaining on St John

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Bargaining on St John

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(@namaste)
Posts: 53
Trusted Member
Topic starter
 

We have rented a cottage for the end of September/ beginning of Oct in Coral Bay. We noticed that the main house is not rented and the leasing agent has reduced the price (of both the units, we paid full price). My husband thinks we should ask to have the main house for the price we payed for the cottage. I don't want to piss off our rental agent but it would be nice to have a little more room(bigger bath). What does anyone who is familiar with the way business is conducted on the island think? I have also considered offering to split the difference between what they are currently asking and what we have already payed. Any suggestions?
Thanks, Mel

 
Posted : August 26, 2008 1:01 pm
 Isa
(@Isa)
Posts: 1
 

Good Afternoon Mel!

My suggestion, give it a try. What have you got to lose. If you explain it to your agent the way you explained it here, you shouldn't upset anyone. It's a rather logical question. But, don't start out with "splitting" the cost difference right away. Get what you can first, then negotiate, if necessary. Good luck and have a great vacation.

 
Posted : August 26, 2008 1:25 pm
(@stt-resident)
Posts: 3316
Famed Member
 

I agree that it doesn't hurt to nicely ask but do understand that the USVI isn't as much of a haggling/bargaining Caribbean destination as are many others and your best bet is to tread very softly. Cheers!

 
Posted : August 26, 2008 1:47 pm
(@Pattypan)
Posts: 1
 

Without knowing exactly what the cottage rents for and what the house rents for, it's hard to say. Is the price you are paying for the cottage close to the discounted price of the house? That would decide it for me.

However, you should ask for *something*!!! Ask for the rate that's now being advertised, at the very least.

On a personal note, I do not like it when guests ask for a reduced rate. BUT I also do not run "specials" or offer "discounts" One low rate, 52 weeks.

I think by discounting the rate the rental agent (or owner) opened the door to negotiations, You should walk right in.

Have a terrific vacation!

Pattypan

 
Posted : August 26, 2008 5:43 pm

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