Vacation Rentals by Owner

Perfect place to unwind with a group

Guest: Ed & Cheryl (Grayslake, IL)
Date of Stay: 12/25/11 Review Submitted: 12/31/11

We were looking for a place to meet somewhere between Chicago and Ann Arbor, This place was everything we wanted --nice space, good location, well maintained and well furnished. The master suite makes the other bedrooms seem lacking -- but they really aren't -- it is just the master suite is so nice. The cooking area is a little cramped for more than one person - but there is plenty of space elsewhere. We appreciated the no TV in the main room - folks had to go downstairs to watch football - but some may be put off by that little feature, One thing that would be nice is a few more end tables and separate chairs to move around -- but that is just a quibble. The windows and fire places make the place feel open and homey at the same time. No neighbors to bother so turn up the music and enjoy. The location right off I-94 - away from the town of New Buffalo keeps you insulated from the tourist feel of New Buffalo -- but you are close enough to bop in for the odd cooking ingredient. Since the town caters to a rather upscale summer crowd the main grocery store is well stocked with gourmet choices - but you don't have to spend $75 on a bottle of wine if you'd rather not. We had 12 folks for 3 days and it was very comfortable. 4 bathrooms make it convenient on all levels, The outdoor hot tub was great - well maintained and easy to operate. We may come back in the summer and try out the kayaking in the area.

Owner response:We are so glad you enjoyed your stay with us. The great thing about this home is it's location, not just from town but the land it sits on. Waya Rentals manages 25 homes in the area and rarely do we find a home with acres of woods surrounding it, a river that runs year round behind it, and the town less then a 5 minute drive away from it. We hope to see you again in the future. Thanks, Ron

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, girls getaway.

Great place for a winter getaway from Chicago

Guest: Jesse S.
Date of Stay: 12/10/11 Review Submitted: 12/12/11

My family and I had a lovely weekend in this cabin. The setting is beautiful and the house is well appointed.

Recommended for:Families with young children

Charming and Secluded!

Guest: Daney (Chicago, IL)
Date of Stay: 12/02/11 Review Submitted: 12/08/11

When spending a weekend at Waya's Den, our group was elated. All we had to do was bring food and games for a relaxing and enjoyable quality time weekend. Everything you need is at the home! It's effortless. The kind owner answers all questions promptly and it's a no hassle experience to rent for the weekend. It's a fast drive over from Chicago! We are already planning on renting again in the next 2 months! Thank you so much for an incredible location with wonderful amenities!

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

Exceptional Getaway!

Guest: PJ (Chicago, IL)
Date of Stay: 11/12/11 Review Submitted: 11/13/11

This home was all that was promised and more! It is only an hours drive from Chicago and provided a great escape from the city. The house has a gorgeous deck that looks out over a creek, has a hot tub and gives you feel as if you are the only one for miles. There are two fireplaces and a very open floor plan. We were able to build a great fire, cook out and use the hot tub after a nice hike outdoors. There were only two of us, but it would be a great home for 4 couples. Enjoy your stay, you won't regret it!

Owner response:I am glad you had a great stay !! Waya prides itself on providing quality rentals, and having great customer service. If you ever need anything in the future regarding rentals/sales in the area please do not hesitate to contact us. Ron M. (Waya Rentals)

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway.

3 rd. time in two years (Amazing !!!)

Guest: mandana (Chicago)
Date of Stay: 10/24/11 Review Submitted: 10/30/11

Thanks again for another great vacation. We have stayed at this home three times in the last two years and we plan to keep coming back. The home is well appointed, extremely clean and Waya Rentals is by far the best to work with. Customer service is very important to us and Ron(Owner of Waya Rentals) is always around to answer questions and give suggestions. The views from most of the windows in this home make you truly feel like you are on vacation, while still being so close to everything if needed. If this property ever goes up for sale please let us know because we have never seen anything like it so close to home(Chicago). Thanks again !!

Owner response:Thank you for all the positive feedback and for your continued business. Waya Rentals works hard to make sure we keep customer service a top priority and hopefully by doing so we keep our clients coming back year after year. We hope to see you again in the near future. If you ever need anything regarding rentals/sales in the area please let us know. Thanks, Ron (Waya Rentals)

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Beautiful location, NOT 4 bedrooms, needs upkeep

Guest: tsprincess (Indianapolis area)
Date of Stay: 08/12/11 Review Submitted: 08/30/11

We stayed here for a week in Aug. 2011. I give this an average rating because 1) it's listed as a 4-BR, and it's not 2) there were many items in disrepair, and 3) we werent' provided sufficient towels, glassware, etc, for the size of our party (which was within the capacity listed). T The house contains a master bedroom, two upstairs bedrooms with a queen size bed shoved in a little alcove and a twin bed in each, plus the basement. The basement does not have a door for privacy. and has a full-sized bed placed in what should be a hallway to another part of the house but is locked off. The bed is right against the doors to the utility closet where pumps, etc. make noise all night. The listing agent responded to my query about the discrepancy by saying the house description he sends when you rent the property contains an accurate description and that the owners have blocked off a room because of electrical problems. The document he refers to does not make it clear that you are getting a 3-BR house with a bed in the basement. It should not be listed as four-bedroom house -- this is deceptive. It is a lovely site, and the area has tons to offer -- lots of great restaurants (try Stop 50 Pizza in Grand Beach) but we were disappointed with the condition of the house for over $3600 we paid to rent it. The toaster handle was falling off, several lights didn't work, the towel rack in the downstairs bath was off the wall and lying on the counter, etc, etc. We were told that they don't leave enough towels and glassware because people steal/break them. That's what security deposits are for.

Owner response:I am sorry you were not completely happy with this home, as you can see from the fact that it is the top rental in Southwest Michigan and the home has only received 5 star ratings over the last seven years that most renters really enjoy the home. We did fix the towel bar on the lower level so thank you for your feedback. In regards to the fourth bedroom we assume renters are aware of the fact that the lower level of the home was acting as a independent space with extra room for sleeping considering we send out detailed floor plans to every potential renter before they book. Please be advised that this house is set up for groups not to exceed 12 people so if you have more then you are suppossed to have at the home you may have issues with not enough towels. Having 16 plus people in any home is going to be a problem.

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, pet owners, sightseeing.

Great Place!!

Guest: unclesteve (Chicago )
Date of Stay: 05/13/11 Review Submitted: 07/15/11

We stayed here for my brother’s graduation from Notre Dame. We had family coming in from different locations, so we needed a place could sleep 10 or more. We could not have been happier with our choice! It had plenty of room, a great deck, and a huge dining room table that was perfect for our family meals. The location is great too...tucked away back in the woods so you feel like you are really in a private area. We never jumped in the hot tub, but if we go back in the winter, we will be in there for sure! Overall the place is outstanding!

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

Annual Mom's Weekend Away!

Guest: Missy (Gilberts, IL)
Date of Stay: 01/14/11 Review Submitted: 01/17/11

This cabin was amazing and more beautiful than the photos. We were a group of 8 adoptive mothers and this place was exactly what we need to regroup, relax, and spend lots of time soaking in the hot tub followed by great conversation and wine in front of the fireplace. Ron was very nice and wonderful to work with. The cabin is also very close to downtown for a much needed spa treatment as well as a snowy hike through Warren State Park. We can't wait to return next January!!

Owner response:I just wanted to say thanks for the kind words. You and your family are always welcome in any property Waya Rental manages. I hope to see you again soon. Thanks, Ron Morales (Owner) Waya Rentals

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

Michigan property rental

Guest: Gary A (Burr Ridge, IL)
Date of Stay: 05/14/10 Review Submitted: 05/25/10

Very nice house. Liked all the amentities. We had one major problem. The beds were sort of small for us tall folks. The queen sized bed seemed more like a double bed to me. If it had king sized beds, things would have been much nicer.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, sightseeing.

Beautiful log cabin home

Guest: Ellen M. (Chicago, Il, USA)
Date of Stay: 02/04/10 Review Submitted: 02/10/10

We had a wonderful winter weekend getaway in this gorgeous comfortable home. Our dogs were in heaven, running through the snow. The amenities were top-notch and the property spotless. Ron, the owner was very helpful with all of our questions. We are looking forward to a return visit in the fall!

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway.

Guest: MURRAY CHALMERS (Geneva, IL)
Date of Stay: 04/28/09 Review Submitted: 04/28/09

We had an absolutely wonderful and relaxing weekend stay at Wayas Den. Sitting on the deck in the morning and drinking our coffee and sipping wine in the evening was the highlight of the weekend. New Buffalo was only minutes away yet you felt as if you were out in the wilderness. A great escape! Murray Chalmers

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Guest: Soraya McLaughlin (-)
Date of Stay: 11/13/08 Review Submitted: 11/13/08

Waya's Den was the most beautiful, immaculate and spacious rental home I have ever been in. The setting was serene, the accomodations were perfect and it was worth every penny! We have already talked about when we can return to New Buffalo and stay at this wonderful home again! The pictures on the site don't do it justice. You must see it to believe it. The best money I have ever spent on a weekend away! Thanks Ron!

Owner response:Thanks Soraya! I really enjoyed working with you and I want you to know you are always welcome in my home.

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Guest: Jennifer Seuring (Chicago, IL )
Date of Stay: 07/07/08 Review Submitted: 07/07/08

What an amazing home you have. The entire place is immaculate, beautifully decorated and perfectly maintained. We stayed for several days over the 4th of July and are already making plans to make Waya's Den an annual trip! We ate every meal inside (why go to a restaurant when you have the perfect setting at home) and the hot tub was a huge hit with the kids. The view is breathtaking and the location is perfect - minutes away from a grocery store, the beach and the quaint downtown of New Buffalo. We give this home a highest recommendation and look forward to our return.

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Guest: Mary Kevin Holdeman (Rockford, IL)
Date of Stay: 05/20/08 Review Submitted: 05/20/08

We could not believe the quality of the materials and furnishings. The setting is absolutely idyllic, and the owner is personal and attentive in his communications. This definitely not your average summer rental.

Owner response:Just would like to say thanks !! I want everyone that stays at my home to enjoy it as much as I do. Ron Morales

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 04/16/08 Review Submitted: 04/16/08

A perfect escape from the city life. Easy to locate, and nearby to everything you need, I will be returning to this cabin.

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Guest: Angie Lee (Chicago, IL)
Date of Stay: 01/29/08 Review Submitted: 01/29/08

Our stay at your home was great. When we checked in, and saw the house in person, we couldn't believe how truly beautiful the place was. The pictures don't do it justice. We spent 2 wonderfully relaxing evenings playing games, sitting by the fire, preparing great dinners in the large kitchen, enjoying the hot tub that overlooks the river and just having a great time. The furnishings were beautiful and comfortable and the home was more than spacious enough for our group of seven adults. Thanks again for answering all of our questions and being such a great host. We look forward to renting from you again.

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Guest: Emilee1 (Carmel, IN)
Date of Stay: 01/02/08 Review Submitted: 01/02/08

We meet up with old college friends every New Years at a cabin to relax, play games, enjoy good food, and watch movies. This is our third cabin in four years and by far our favorite. The home is immaculate and extremely well cared for. The furnishings are plush and the view is amazing. We had snow our last night and it was so cozy around the fire. Ron is a wonderful owner who I spoke with several times via e-mail and telephone. He was always very nice and helpful with any questions I had. You will be so pleased with this cabin and will want to return - just like us!

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What A Weekend

Guest: Drew (Birmingham, MI USA)
Date of Stay: 11/01/07 Review Submitted: 12/07/07

A group of us stayed at the cabin in early November 2007. From the moment we pulled in the driveway, it was utter bliss. The home provided us with everything we needed and far exceeded our high expectations. Ron (the owner) has done a wonderful job making sure you will want for nothing while staying at his home. I am convinced the property provides some of the most natural and picturesque views in all of Michigan. The cabin is a short drive (5 minutes) from downtown New Buffalo and Lake Michigan. Downtown provides grocery stores and all the conveniences to make your stay in New Buffalo fell like home...wherever that may be. I truly cannot do this property justice in describing it's beauty. Perfect any time of year, it would be great for a group of guys wanting to play golf in the area. If you are considering renting this property, call Ron immediately because when others find out about it, it will not be available often.

Owner response:I would just like to say thanks for all of the positive comments. I realize that people have many choices and expectations when they go on vacation so I try to do my best to make sure they leave are homes with complete satisfaction and a desire to return. I promise to always make all of are guests feel at home.

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

Guest: Molly6 (-)
Date of Stay: 09/20/07 Review Submitted: 09/20/07

We had a great time at Waya's Den. The house totally exceeded our expectations. The house is decorated beautifully! Even though it rained most of the time, we made plenty of memories playing games inside or sitting on the deck. The house is so private and quiet. Ron is so helpful if any questions need to be answered. We are definitely returning. What a perfect vacation!

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Guest: Diane & Shelly (Peoria, IL)
Date of Stay: 06/22/07 Review Submitted: 06/22/07

We had our family reunion at the log cabin and another house by Lake Michigan. I knew the log cabin would be nice, but it exceeded my expectations. The wooded setting was beautiful and the trees and river lit up at night was such a great idea. The other house we rented didn't compare to the log cabin. Thank you for sharing your home with us. We hope to be back!

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Guest: Maureen Winckler (Warrenville, IL)
Date of Stay: 06/20/07 Review Submitted: 06/20/07

Your house is beautiful. It was perfect. There was more then enough space for everyone very comfortably. The location was perfect, the privacy was great and the deck was unbelievable.

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Guest: Barbara11 (-)
Date of Stay: 12/12/06 Review Submitted: 12/12/06

Thank you for opening your home to us. What an amazing Thanksgiving weekend we had in New Buffalo! We enjoyed walking on the beach, walking in the woods and sitting by the fire. Your home is beautiful and so well appointed that we didn't need to bring anything. I hope that we will be able to enjoy it again some day soon. Thanks Again!

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AMAZING!

Guest: Christy (Chicago, Illinois)
Date of Stay: 11/01/06 Review Submitted: 11/07/06

A group of twelve of us (YES, twelve) stayed at Waya's Den last weekend and it was one of the most amazing weekends we have ever had, just two hours outside of the hustle and bustle of Chicago . . . The cabin is breathtaking, both inside and out and allows for maximum privacy (which is particularly useful when you've got a few loud ones in your group). There was more than enough room for everyone to sleep comfortably and the layout provided alot of room for relaxing and playing games. Additionally, the location was stellar, with a grocery store within a mile of the cabin and vineyards for wine tasting if cabin-fever takes over the group! The highlight of the weekend was certainly the massive campfires & smores, along with the spontaneous use of the jacuzzi tub (which easily fits four people). The grill on the enormous back deck was a plus too! There just isn't enough to say about this place except GO THERE! NOW!!! I know we can't wait to go back next year for another round! : )

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Guest: Becky7 (Naperville, IL)
Date of Stay: 10/05/06 Review Submitted: 10/05/06

Thank you so much for opening your home and providing an opportunity to escape our busy lives. The house is absolutely beautiful and our dogs had a wonderful time running and playing outside. And thank you for being so available to answer questions, offer suggestions on places to go and just make sure we had everything we needed. I look forward to the next trip!

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The Perfect Family Retreat!

Guest: Crystal (Valparaiso, IN)
Date of Stay: 10/01/06 Review Submitted: 10/31/06

You know you made the right decision when you pull up to your vacation rental and everything exceeds all descriptions and pictures! Our family spent the weekend camped out in this incredible abode of paradise. We cooked all meals in the well-equipped kitchen, and simply enjoyed the amenities of this glorious get-away. The furniture was plush, the view was breath-taking, and the fireplace(s) were warming. We were all amazed how much room we had to spread out over the 3 spacious floors. During the day we were able to explore the surrounding woods, and by night we were gathered around the fireplace playing games and enjoying each other's company. Nothing says "vacation" better, than being able to lose all track of time. The owner was the host of all hosts! His assurance that my family and I had the best experience was priceless. He answered any questions and offered great suggestions. His personal interest in our special weekend is one more reason why I would return. You cannot go wrong with "Waya's Den." Whatever the occasion, you can count on a relaxing and memorable one at this place! We certainly will return soon!

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The Perfect Michigan Get-Away

Guest: Puppysmoocher (Villa Park, IL)
Date of Stay: 10/01/06 Review Submitted: 10/18/06

Waya's Den is the perfect place to savor Michigan in the fall when the colors are at their peak. From the moment you come up the wooded drive to the house to the first sip of hot chocolate around the outdoor fire pit - this cabin has something to offer everyone. My husband made a quick 5 minute drive into town to watch college football at one of the local watering holes while I stayed at the cabin with my dogs and tended the fireplace(s). My daughter (26 yrs. old and a fledging photographer) snapped some of the most beautiful views of the river and surrounding woods. My son and his girlfriend (both 24 yrs. old) made their way down to the river with the dogs and watched as they waded in the stream. While we were here in the fall, I can easily see how every season at this cabin would be an experience not to be missed! The cabin is beautifully appointed with oversized furniture and the beds are extremely comfortable (pillow-top mattress in the Master bedroom). The jacuzzi in the Master bath is heavenly. Decks on both side of the house have fantastic views and there is a nice trail for an easy stroll. The owner was extremely helpful and friendly and happily answered all our questions. There is a scrapbook filled with helpful suggestions on where to dine and what to do while in New Buffalo, complete with menus and directions. This property would be perfect for newlyweds, dog-lovers, a large family or group and nature-lovers. The house can definitely sleep 10 with everyone stretched out. We'll be back soon!

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 08/12/06 Review Submitted: 08/12/06

The cabin was delightful.There were great accmodations and plenty of space for all. There were 8 adults in our group and we found solitude when needed and yet room for our group to gather on the deck or in the great room. The cabin in tastefully decorated and up to date. Wonderful! The 7C's

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Guest: jerry3 (chicago)
Date of Stay: 08/07/06 Review Submitted: 08/07/06

Thanks for letting us stay at your beautiful home. I couldn't have asked for a more relaxing vacation site. The kids loved kayaking along Lake Michigan. We also enjoyed playing bacci ball and the dogs loved running in your open wooded lot. We had a great time bbQ and would love to come back this fall to see the leaves change and possibly in the winter to enjoy snuggling by the fireplace. Thanks again. Jerry and gang

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Guest: Gigi3 (Lombard IL)
Date of Stay: 08/07/06 Review Submitted: 08/07/06

My husband & I loved your cabin. The secluded wooded area really added a nice touch to our anniversary weekend. The cabin was perfect, we didn't need to bring anything. The best part about the house was the beautiful view of the woods and the river from the deck. I can't believe how close the river was. We enjoyed a BBQ on the deck and had fun shopping in the downtown area. We are already planning to go back in the Fall.

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Guest: Nelson Morales 1 (-)
Date of Stay: 07/24/06 Review Submitted: 07/24/06

What a great place everything you ever need will be there. Spacious, comfortable, and located in the perfect place. If you really want to have a relaxed weekend with friends, or family enjoy this hidden gem.

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Guest: Nelson Morales (Chicago, IL )
Date of Stay: 07/24/06 Review Submitted: 07/24/06

What a great place everything you ever need will be there. Spacious, comfortable, and located in the perfect place. If you really want to have a relaxed weekend with friends, or family enjoy this hidden gem.

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 07/12/06 Review Submitted: 07/12/06

We recently stayed at your beautiful log home. It was peaceful and relaxing with all the amenities of home. The New Buffalo beaches were very nice and we also enjoyed the antique shops and many restaurants. The Lighthouse Outlet Mall was great too and very close. Thank you for sharing your beautiful home with us. We would definitely stay again.

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Guest: mandana (Chicago)
Date of Stay: 07/07/06 Review Submitted: 07/07/06

We loved our stay at this Cabin. It is a beautiful home, with many conveniences. The house is centrally located so that we were able to try many local restaurants. We also enjoyed bike riding, kayaking, and antique shopping. The house was very peaceful. We were able to enjoy BBQ on the back deck as well as warm up next to the fireplace. This home really has everything you could imagine for a getaway. We are definitely going to come back.

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Guest: Sol1 (Chicago, IL)
Date of Stay: 07/07/06 Review Submitted: 07/07/06

This place is great. We loved the view of the river and the log-cabin feel -- quiet and secluded with all the modern conveniences. It was also really easy to get to New Buffalo and the beach. Very quiet. Very comfortable. Would definitely stay again.

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 06/21/06 Review Submitted: 06/20/06

Stay at a truely rare find in New Buffalo Michigan. This cabin is nearly 2400 sq.ft. with a queen bed in each of the three bedrooms and a bathroom on every floor. The house sits on six wooded acres of land with your closest home about a football stadium away. The house is located five minutes from Downtown New Buffalo where you have the lake Michigan beach and many great restaurants and stores. The area also has a great day spa and a place to rent kayaks and bikes. Come stay at a beautiful home located just minutes away from a little bit of everything. Please do not hesitate to call even if it is just to ask questions. Thanks, Ron 312-952-8361

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Executive Retreat

Guest: Todd1 (Elkhart, IN)
Date of Stay: 01/01/06 Review Submitted: 01/25/07

We used the property for a strategic planning retreat for our senior leadership team and it worked wonderully. Excellent setting both inside and out. Great basement for getting down to business in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. And, when it was time to sit around and brainstorm - the main floor great room with beautiful fireplace was perfect. Kitchen was great too.

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