Airbnb

[NJHalo]

Has anyone used them?

 

Looking for opinions.

 

I hate to take a risk with vacation time. I always envision myself showing up to some dump, or keys that don't work, and not having onsite management.

[OCAngelsNotLAA]

I have rented cabins in big bear/arrowhead numerous times through airbnb and haven't had an issue. 

[Don]

I've used it in Costa Rica and Tempe. Great deals with no issues whatsoever either time. But do your research. Look at pictures. Talk through any questions or concerns you have with the person you're renting from. Get an idea of the check in/check out procedure. In short, just be thorough and trust your judgment and you'll more than likely have a great experience.

[notherhalo]

rented at least 5 - 6 months of housing so far, no problems - even met a lot of cool people

 

Its great for when you want to stay a month and have a way better place for half the price

kinda a hassle to meet up with someone, etc etc when its a night or two

 

however its a steal for cabins!

[ten ocho recon scout]

I tried to use it recently and it sucked. Had some crazy registration process where you have to provide all kinds of sensitive info, including being asked to make a video...those with existing accounts are fine, but i couldnt even get it to work.

Great deals on it though

[mrwicked]

I have tried a couple times, and every time I try to use Airbnb I remember why I never use Airbnb. My experience with them has been awful. No response from owners, last minute random cancellations "sorry dude I decided to be there that weekend.." etc.

My buddy flew out from Boston and same thing happened to him - on landing he noticed the lister of the apartment he had rented a month prior cancelled their agreement the day of, for no reason. He was stuck at an airport with no place to stay and no recourse. Airbnb told him "bummer."

That's unfathomable on VRBO.

VRBO or private firms are so much better. It's a bit more $$ but worth it.

Also remember you're not necessarily renting from the owner of the property. A good amount of the listings are renters who are illegally subletting to subsidize their rent.

Then again I have friends who have used it without issues. So just depends on your risk tolerance. For a major vacation personally I would never book through them.

Edited June 25, 2015 by mrwicked

[NJHalo]

You hit the nail on the head Wicked; Risk tolerance.

 

The fact that I am posting this question shows my risk tolerance is low.

 

I have always done well with VRBO and Cyberrentals, so I guess I should stick with them.