How can I best secure a lease and find accommodation in Ecuador?

Hello,

I’m hoping to stay in Ecuador next year for a few months so I will be looking for accommodation. Does anyone have any suggestions on the best sites to use? I’ve heard using Facebook can be helpful but I’m not so sure how secure that is. I’ve heard it’s best to visit a property in person first before securing a lease or paying any money, so this makes securing accommodation tricky… Also I’ve read that leases are normally one year but can be longer – can shorter term leases be arranged/what if I plan on cancelling my lease early? I’d appreciate any information on leases, deposits and how to find place to live in in Ecuador. Oh – any recommendations on neighbourhoods and areas around Quito/Guayaquil would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance!