Guides for group planners

• What "sleeps 30" really means: Why the number on a listing can mislead, and how to check it.
• Questions to ask before you book: A checklist for one call or email, sorted by what goes wrong most.
• A group trip timeline: What to settle at 12 months, 6 months, 8 weeks and on arrival.
• Official rules and permit offices: Links to the county and state offices that oversee big rentals.

Also useful: your shortlist writes one message you can send to every place, and splits the cost per person.