Properties that are For Rent By Owner are privately owned properties that are rented directly from the owner of the property, who may even live in the dwelling when it is not rented. Many of these rental properties are second homes owned as an investment or vacation home. For rent by owner homes are usually stocked with linens, kitchen utensils, plates and silverware by the owner, with the guest responsible for damages.

For Rent By Owner homes come with the amenities that the owner believes are most important for the area, and may include such features as private pools, hot tub/jacuzzi, or private boat docks for oceanfront rentals. In areas near ski resorts, the hot tub/jacuzzi may still be an important feature, but the pool may be replaced with ski-in ski-out facilities.

When dealing directly with the owner of the rental home, the owner does not have to pay a commission to a property manager and the owner frequently is able to offer a lower rental rate for the home. The rental home is many times the only property the owner has an interest in other than his residence.