What is the usual procedure of payment?

There is not a fixed standard of how payment is arranged with the owner; however many use the following method

• On making a reservation, 20-50% percent of the total amount is paid
• The balance is paid between 3 to 10 weeks before arrival

You may also be asked to pay a refundable deposit upon arrival, in case of damage to contents of the property.  Most owners will ask you to make a bank transfer.  Some will accept cheques while more and more have set up their own paypal account in order for the clients to pay by credit card.