Alternatives to AirBnB and VRBO for the Vacationer

[Jason Merchey]

I am calling this "off topic" since it is really basically me asking: Since the big STR platforms charge vacationers so darned much for cleaning, service fees, pets, host fees, etc. etc. etc. etc., where could one go to find a low-add-on-fee vacation rental that didn't come too close to Craigslist or a venue that has no Q.A.? I'm in the Asheville area (counties of Buncombe, Henderson, Polk, Transylvania, etc.) in North Carolina, FWIW. I feel like I wish I knew someone personally who has a vacation rental within an hour of where I live (Hendersonville) who could be like "OK I trust you won't mess the place up and you trust that I wouldn't gyp you, so how about $200 a night flat fee paid person to person in cash" or whatever....

No I'm probably not too keen on fractional ownership like Pacaso or whatever. It seems a bit intimidating a la time shares to me, personally, and of course, a high upfront outlay model + maintenance fees.

Ideas?

[Bonnie Low]

Are you asking because you're looking to book a place or you asking because you have a place you want to list somewhere? If you're looking for a place to book off platform I may be able to help (closing on our STR in Lake Lure in a few days). We intend to have a direct book listing and not rely solely on Airbnb, VRBO and other OTAs. Direct booking lets guests get away from the fees and all of the noise in the OTAs with their algorithms and such and it lets the hosts be in charge of their properties and bookings. The only other recommendation I have for you that is not ala Craig's list is Furnished Finder. It caters to travel professionals more than vacationers but certainly anyone looking for a furnished place and a longer stay could contact a host through their site. It doesn't work like the OTAs in that you don't book via them. It's just a place to match up hosts and guests. In other words, it's a lead gen funnel. Hope that helps.