airbnb reservation service
 

Hello to all,

Has anyone used this service? Where there any issues? Perhaps we've been very fortunate in not previously having to pay such large(basically the same as the rental charges) security deposits if any at all. Makes me somewhat nervous.

Many thanks for your comments
2100lattes

Here's a long thread about airbnb that was started in 2009, but recent posts were added in May 2012:
http://www.fodors.com/community/unit...nd-lodging.cfm

http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...b-in-paris.cfm

Tripadvisor discussions: http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic...nb-France.html

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic...n_England.html

(BTW, since you are new to Fodors, you may not realize you can search topics by using the "Search the Forum" box above).

Walkabout,

Thanks very much for your help for locating the previous threads. I will look through them thoroughly. A quick glance seems to show there is no real need to worry. Thanks also for steering me in the right direction re the "search button".

2100 lattes

FWIW- airbnb is NOT a reservation service.

It simply lists homes; apts; and rooms that people wish to rent out. You deal directly with the owner for all things except you pay airbnb who then pays the owners. The renter pays a % to airbnb as a service charge.

I have had to great experiences with a rental in San Francisco and again in Hawaii. Just my 2 cents and experience.

I would not say there is 100% no worry. No one makes sure these rentals are legit, legal, or even exist. Be sure to read reviews carefully and even then, there is a bit of a gamble.

I would never attempt to use airbnb again. Was scammed on their site and they are no help. Their customer service is a joke. Have had decent luck with VRBO; at least the properties have existed. Airbnb conducts no checks at all and you may be renting a totally non-existent property. All I can say is buyer beware.