FAQs

What time is check-in/check-out?

Check-in is 4p.m. and check-out is 11a.m. These times may be flexible dependent upon our schedule. Please call the number listed in your welcome email you will receive 3 days prior to check in to inquire about an early arrival or late departure.  Please note we cannot confirm this until the morning of the check in or check out. An early in or late out is never guaranteed.

What is the payment schedule and refund policy?

When you book our home we will require 30% down to hold the it for you, this is a payment not a deposit. The full balance is due 14 days prior to check in.  If you cancel prior to the 14 days you will receive the full amount less a $35 cancellation fee.  At the 14 day mark your stay will become non-refundable and dates cannot be adjusted.  Your payments will be automatically processed to the card you place on file at the time of booking.  PLEASE NOTE: You will be required to sign an electronic rental agreement at the time of booking; we ask this be signed and filed within 48 hours of receiving.  

What is maximum occupancy and what determines this number? 

Occupancy is determined by Jo Daviess County, some items to factor into this decision are the size of the home, the septic system, the driveway grade, etc.  Each home's occupancy is listed in its description. All guests count towards the occupancy total; this includes all ages of children.  

How old must a primary renter be?  Can I book the home for someone else?

Our primary renters must be 25 years or older and be present for the entire duration of the stay.  We require that reservations be booked by the person who's going to stay at the listing.

What is a proximity card and where is it located?

A proximity card is a key card that contains smart chip technology and electronically opens doors at the GTA Owner's Club and allows you access to the Lake Galena Marina and waste facilities.  You will need one proximity card per person to access the GTA Owner's Club. The club is the location of the indoor swimming pool, business center, fitness center, indoor basketball court and a seasonal outdoor pool. Children 5 and under do not require a card. The cards are located within each home for your use. There is a $50 per card fee is lost or damaged.

Are hot tubs operational and serviced year round?

Yes, our tubs are available year round.  They are serviced after each stay.  If the tub is damaged or requires additional cleaning you may incur additional charges.

What amenities are standard in our vacation homes?

The following amenities are standard to all homes unless specifically noted in the home's description:

Cable/Satellite TV or Streaming Services

WiFi

Bed Linens/Pillows/Towels

Coffee Maker/Toaster/Blender/Crock Pot

Dishwasher/Microwave some homes have icemakers

Dishes/Silverware/Glasses for total occupancy

Basic Pots and Pans and Baking Needs

All paper products/TP/paper towels/Kleenex/hand soap/dishwashing soap/dishwasher tabs

Central Heat and A/C

Washer/Dryer/Iron/Ironing Board (except Bench St)

Gas grill w/additional propane at every home (except Walnut Hill)

Firewood is provided for homes with wood burning fireplaces and fire pits (except Shorewood)

Where do I dispose of garbage?

Please note that garbage pick-up service is not available in the Galena Territory.  If you are staying in a condo/golf villa the dumpster is located in your parking area.  If you are staying in one of our homes your cleaning fee includes the disposal of 2 cans of garbage (typically found on back deck, patio or in garage if applicable).  Garbage bags are provided and the bags MUST be tied securely before disposing in the 2 outside trash cans.  Please no loose garbage, this includes recycling.  if you wish to recycle please take to the waste facility where sorting is available or remove and take with you.  We do not provide large black garbage bags, they are too heavy for us once filled. If during your stay your trash exceeds the two cans, please take to one of the two convenient refuse centers in the Territory.  One is near the Shenandoah Riding Center and the other by Thunderbay Falls.   YOU WILL NEED TO BRING A PROXIMITY CARD TO GAIN ACCESS TO THE CENTERS.

Is Smoking Allowed? Are Fireworks Allowed?

Smoking IS NOT allowed in any of our homes. Fines will be assessed if evidence is found to be present during or after your stay.

Fireworks are illegal in Illinois.  They are not allowed in the Galena Territory or in our homes. Please refer to the Pyrotechnic Use Act for more information.

Do you allow pets in all of your homes?

Only Pet-Friendly homes allow dogs.  If you are unsure if your home is pet-friendly please ask. Failure to comply will result in fines for damage any evidence of pets during your stay. Maximum of 2 dogs per stay.