Holiday flat worries - Scams and dodgy property agents. Help!

[RamblingRosa]

Hi
We're going on holiday in September. I booked the flat (in Portugal) via one of those Owners Direct/Holiday Lettings type websites.

I've paid the deposit and balance. I've only spoken to the owner (English) via email and she's been ok.

She has told me to contact the property management agents when I arrive in Portugal to arrange picking up the keys. Being a bit uptight cautious, I emailed them last week to ask what the arrangements would be re picking up keys. I didn't hear anything back so I tried again. Nothing. So I looked up their website only to find it was blocked and all sorts of "malware" and virus warnings popped up.

I then googled the property management company and found a few negative things including warnings that they're renowned con artists and they withhold deposits etc.

I don't know what to do now. It might all be fine and I'm worrying about nothing. Or our long awaited and much needed holiday could be a complete disaster.

Any advice would be much appreciated. What can I do? I'll lose 50% if I cancel now.

Help!

When I have had to collect keys from agents before, the owner has previously given me detailed instructions (e.g. go to their office in resort anytime between 2pm and 6pm, ask for Jane etc.) or there has been a key-safe at the agents and the owner provides you with the code for the safe so you can do it yourself when you get there.

I would also be concerned if I were you and would contact the owner and ask for detailed clarification for your peace of mind. You have paid her money so don't feel guilty about making sure things are right.

Good luck.

Thank you. I'm feeling a bit better because the property agents have finally replied to my email. I have their numbers and I have vague directions to their office. They're saying to call 20 mins in advance of arriving and they'll come to meet us at the station.

I've also checked on the holiday lettings site and it seems like there are some protections if it all goes really tits up.

Still anxious but not crapping myself as much as I was this morning.

Thanks

If you have a phone number for the owners then ring them and tell them your concerns. It is in their interests to make sure their clients are happy.

Have a good holiday.