Vacation Rentals by Owner

Fantastic getaway location

Guest: Jennifer P.
Date of Stay: 09/09/11 Review Submitted: 09/21/11

The house looked just as good in person as it does in the pictures. The kitchen was the best stocked one we've ever seen in a rental or timeshare. The house is very well laid out for two couples, with bedrooms and baths on opposite sides of the living area. All of the rooms have windows on three sides, making them very light and airy. The furnishings were all in very good condition. The grounds are very well kept. The pool, with its non-chlorinated system, was the nicest I've been in in ages. The solar heater kept the temperatures around eighty degrees in mid-September. September was a great time to visit, as it was still warm but much less crowded. We borrowed one of the kayaks (having brought one with us) and had great visits to Sengekontacket Pond and Edgartown Great Pond. The Vineyard has extensive bike paths; next time we'll bring our bikes as well. (You need to do something to work off Mad Martha's ice cream and Chilmark Chocolates!) This was the most restful vacation we've had in years. We plan to return soon to Jennie Lane!

Owner response:We thank you for your great review. We have worked hard to develop a property that draws people back because it is comfortable and well equipped. It is our goal to provide a perfect getaway that provides our guests with all their vacation needs. We hope you do return to Jennie Lane soon!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great location-peaceful retreat

Guest: viajera (Wrentham, Ma.)
Date of Stay: 08/26/11 Review Submitted: 09/19/11

My husband and I spent a wonderful two weeks at this lovely home and I would highly recommend it. the house is spotless, comfortable and well-appointed. It's delightful to sit on the back deck and look out at the wildflowers. Also in the hot tub at night looking at the stars. One week we had a number of visitors, and although the sunroom isn't very private, we managed to have 6 people sleeping comfortably in the house. The only complaint was that there are only bathrooms off the bedrooms - no common bathroom, meaning that guests had to go through bedrooms in the middle of the night. We were reluctant at first to be in such close proximity to the landlords, but they were friendly, extremely helpful, and not intrusive. Betty Jean is up early every morning making sure the grounds and pool are pristine. We were there during hurricane Irene, and by the next morning all the debris on the grounds and in the pool was miraculously cleared away! It's also a great location - close to everything as long as you have a car. Close to great shopping at Morning Glory Farm!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Peaceful Retreat!

Guest: Stefanie (Lower Gwynedd, PA)
Date of Stay: 08/05/11 Review Submitted: 08/30/11

We had a wonderful week on the island and the cottage was everything I expected. The peaceful location was a beautiful setting both day and night. Betty Jean was a delightful caretaker, who was available to assist when needed, both before our visit and during. We are a family of 5, and the living space was just right...a very cozy cottage-feel, yet we were not cramped or crowded. All 3 of my daughters were able to sleep comfortably in the second bedroom, using the window seat as an additional bed for the youngest (age 7). The hot tub was a huge plus and we used it daily. The pool was a wonderful option to have for those "iffy" beach days or to relax by prior to dinner. Linens and beach towels were provided, which was a welcomed amenity. I would absolutely recommend this property and look forward to visiting again should our vacation plans take us back to the Vineyard!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway.

Weeklong stay at MV cottag

Guest: Derek from NY (NYC)
Date of Stay: 07/15/11 Review Submitted: 07/26/11

My family and I recently stayed at the cottage owned by Betty Jean and Bill near Edgartown, and we had a fabulous trip. I concur with all of the earlier reviews giving the property a top rating. When we arrived, the property was well-cleaned and tidy; everything worked, save a lightbulb or two. Also as described, the property was fully stocked with everything a vacationing family with kids might need -- a full kitchen with spices and cooking utensils; board games and some toys; beach equipment including chairs umbrellas and a boogie board; a complete set of clean linens; etc. One thing we had been concerned about was the privacy of the unit, given that it shares a common pool with two other structures (the owners' studio and another rental property). This turned out not to be a concern at all. From most interior vantage points, no other properties are visible (or are only distantly visible). One room -- the lovely sunroom -- does look out to the pool and the other properties, but they are very far away and nobody can see into your unit (and you can barely hear kids swimming in the pool with the windows open). One negative -- internet service is via satellite, and thus is slow. Citrix is difficult to use. However, Verizon and Sprint both had strong signals from the guesthouse, and you should be able to tether your smartphone into a modem to achieve reasonable 3G download speeds. (I mention the cell phone issue, because MV has horrible service generally in the island, and thus having a signal at home was a meaningful benefit for us, as we were trying to work). Overall, a great experience, and already my wife and I are talking about possibly coming back next year with another couple renting the second property, so we can reserve the entire "compound".

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Excellent Property and Property Owners

Guest: Jo (Boston, Massachusetts)
Date of Stay: 06/03/11 Review Submitted: 05/16/12

I wrote over a year ago that I stayed here with a young daughter and decided to return the following season, and we did. We had a wonderful time, both times. I really just wanted to reiterate that the pictures here perfectly illustrate the house and mention that the owners always responded promptly, were friendly and helpful. They had plenty of information in the house for things to do, and it truly was a home away from home. ...the only reason we didn't return this year is that we are interested in seeing other parts of the country and ventured further south for this year's trip. We did have a truly lovely time both times and hope to return again. I just wanted to reiterate what a lovely property this is -- and that Betty Jean was great at coordinating everything.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Wonderful Getaway

Guest: Anonymous (Boston, Ma)
Date of Stay: 10/01/10 Review Submitted: 12/09/10

My husband and young daughter and I stayed here last fall. We knew we wanted to go on a vacation, but I was anxious to fly (both with a 10 month old and trying to figure out all the stuff she needs.) We eventually "settled" on staying on Martha's Vineyard, and it ended up being the most fantastic vacation I could have imagined. It was such a lovely and secluded location, We loved that she had her own room, and everything else just felt like home. We had plenty of room, everything was very nicely laid out, everything was super clean, and the kitchen was fantastic. She had fun playing in the pool (although the October weather didn't cooperate) and by the time we left, we had already decided to come back in the spring. It was a wonderful week, and we look forward to our return.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Love of My Life

Guest: Jan ( Normal, Il)
Date of Stay: 09/23/10 Review Submitted: 10/01/10

This was not merely a vacation property. This home is so thoughtfully designed and well appointed we enjoyed the uniqueness of each space each day. The cozy sunporch for breezy afternoon naps, the kitchen window seat to chat and cook, and the beautiful meadow surrounding it all. This was truly a vacation to remember in a place I will never forget. Thank you Betty Jean and Bill for your kindness and generosity- Adam & Jan September 2010

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Great home :)

Guest: Erin (Newton, MA)
Date of Stay: 08/27/10 Review Submitted: 08/28/11

The property was exactly as described and we enjoyed ourselves during our stay. It is a very peaceful setting yet close enough to everything to be convenient. If you are traveling with a small child, be aware that there is no bath tub (only stall showers) so you may want to bring a baby pool if your child does not like the shower.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

A delightful home!

Guest: Teresa C (Upper Montclair, NJ 07043)
Date of Stay: 07/17/09 Review Submitted: 08/03/09

My family and I have been staying at this home for the last three years. It has truly been a wonderful and serene experience for all of us. Upon arrival you can't help but notice how nicely manicured the grounds are kept. At the front entrance you are greeted by the sounds of a wind chime hanging by the window. Beyond that the interior of this house is clean, full of light and it has a spacious open layout. The homeowner is very conscientious providing books, board games, many children's videos, and even beach toys. Every year we look forward to our visit to the Vineyard and staying in this lovely home.

Owner response:We truly enjoy sharing our island home with guests who show their appreciation of the efforts we put into making this a special place to vacation and who consider our home their home while they are on the island. We look forward to welcoming guests who return every year.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway.

Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 09/01/08 Review Submitted: 09/18/08

My husband and I rented this beautiful home for our honeymoon on the Vineyard and it was absolutely perfect. The location of the property couldn't have been better and we enjoyed all of the amenities including the grill and hottub. We would definitely recommend this property. Thanks to Betty Jean & Bill for a wonderful honeymoon! - Ericka & Dave Hytinen

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Great holiday

Guest: Daniela2 (Frankfurt, Germany)
Date of Stay: 07/04/08 Review Submitted: 08/02/08

We really liked the house from the first moment we arrived. The house is very nice decorated and very clean. We felt like home. Everything was perfect! Betty Jean, thanks again! We surely will stay once again in this very perfect and nice house (next time for a longer stay)! Daniela, Robert and Dana

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 05/01/08 Review Submitted: 05/13/08

My family and I have been going to the wonderful island of Martha's Vineyard for over 20 years and we have never stayed in a more beautiful place! From the moment we pulled into the driveway I felt like I had found my slice of heaven!! The house looks like it belongs on the cover of a county magazine! And it is so incredibly clean and arranged in such a way that everything you could possibly need is at your fingertips! You cannot find a better place to call your home away from home! We will definitely be frequent customers! Thank you!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Samantha F. (Wethersfield, CT)
Date of Stay: 11/01/07 Review Submitted: 11/02/07

Betty Jean, Our family just had such a great time at your property. We couldn't have made a better choice for our vacation. We hope to be able to go back in the summertime now for a longer stay! Thank you for everything, Samantha, Andre & Lucas Fernandes

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 10/01/07 Review Submitted: 10/30/07

Betty Jean...Our family enjoyed a great visit in your home...As close neighbors, living on Cape Cod, we enjoy the Vineyard so much..great house, great piece of land..our children got a kick out of the turkeys...hopefully we will be back for a longer stay!

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Better than our wildest dreams

Guest: Samantha F. (Wethersfield, CT)
Date of Stay: 09/01/07 Review Submitted: 11/02/07

On the Accuracy of Photos, I give 4 stars because the house is even prettier than the pictures. Although the pictures are nice, some look faded and it doesn't do justice to the reality. This house is brand new, everything is extremely clean (really, it is spotless!) and very well appointed too!! The location is very secluded which for us was ok because we took our car, surrounded by nature, just so so peaceful. We have a little boy, one year old who took advantages of all the toys and books. We had a wonderful time! We will come back in the future for sure! The owner of this house has other properties too and we checked them out from outside, they all seem gorgeous like this one!! Thank you Betty Jean for letting us enjoy your beautiful house!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 09/01/07 Review Submitted: 09/01/07

Dear Betty Jean, This was the perfect house for our family! The layout is great - so spacious and bright! Our two daughters loved chasing butterflies in the morning and listening to crickets at night. This house was a large part of what made our trip to the Vineyard so wonderful! We will be back! The Folger Family

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 08/01/07 Review Submitted: 08/09/07

We have rented many vacation houses but have never felt so at home as we did in this Vineyard home. It's an amazing house, beautifully decorated, and extremely clean. We had more than enough room for our family of four. You truly feel as if you can make yourself at home here. We hope to make this home a yearly vacation destination for our family.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 09/01/06 Review Submitted: 09/21/06

An absolutely wonderful place to stay. Perfect in almost every way. We could not recommend it more highly. Joe & Jackie A

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 08/01/06 Review Submitted: 08/14/06

Dear Betty Jean, Thanks so much for renting your charming home at the Vineyards. Our family found it to be the perfect size, with so many nice amenities including the popular outdoor shower. The weather was perfect and the house provided the perfect sanctuary after long days at the beach. We will be back in the future! Chris

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Guest: Sam and Toby
Date of Stay: 10/12/04 Review Submitted: 10/11/04

We had a wonderful time staying at your house. Our 1 year old daughter, Emily, slept better here than at home in Brooklyn, NY! Thank you so much. We hope to return next year. This family has returned for their third consecutive year.

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Guest: The Smiths
Date of Stay: 10/12/04 Review Submitted: 10/11/04

To the Kennedys, We have truly enjoyed our stay at your home! What a great house - the design is perfect. Everything is so well thought out. The Homeport was great! We went to Long Point twice, East Beach twice, State Beach almost every day, and, of course, South Beach. Grace Church is the best place for lobster rolls. We shouldn't have gone to Murdicks as much as we did, bu we enjoyed that also. As much as anything we enjoyed coming back to this beautiful house to relax. Thank you.

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Guest: Scott and Allison
Date of Stay: 10/12/04 Review Submitted: 10/11/04

We've had a great time - the 4 weeks just flew by! Thank you for providing such a lovely and comfortable home. Our family enjoyed escaping the hear of Texas and we ended up escaping the most severe heat wave of the last 300 years in London. We hope to return next year. Thanks again.

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Guest: Jim and Linda
Date of Stay: 10/12/04 Review Submitted: 10/11/04

The house was great! As we leave we are already looking forward to staying at your house next year. We love sitting in the hot tub and watching the sunset. Thanks for the use of your house. See you next year. This family has returned three consecutive years.

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Guest: Michael, Mona, Maryette and Jo
Date of Stay: 10/12/04 Review Submitted: 10/11/04

Dear Betty Jean and Bill, We were so glad we got to meet you and Hannah's father. Your house is beautiful and the location great. We come to the Vineyard often and your house on Jennie Lane is now one of our favorite places. What a great place to relax and enjoy. Tnak you so much for your hospitality (wine, lowers, etc.) We "will be back"!

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Guest: Mark and Elaine
Date of Stay: 10/12/04 Review Submitted: 10/11/04

Thank you so much for the use of your house. It is a beautiful setting and decorated so pretty. We visited the little towns and took your suggestions for hikes and beaches. The kids had lots of fun at the beaches and found rocks and shells. We are from California and we had no idea the island was so wooded and dense. Martha's Vineyard's little towns were so cute and we loved the white house with green or black shutters. Very quaint! We have a Mayhew descendant as a friend from Davis CA, a photographer.

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