And don’t allow VRBO to brand you into thinking otherwise. I’ve been saying in my blogs over and over, for at least 2 years, that VRBO’s business model looks like Amazon and Ebay. Just yesterday I saw more evidence of this bullyish VRBO business model. Apparently now they’d like to call themselves a “marketplace”. If you look at the wikipedia definition of online marketplace, that makes owners 3rd party sellers. VRBO needs a referendum from the owner community and the guest community that the are not a marketplace. VRBO is a lead generation service who should be providing leads and connecting owners and guests. VRBO should not be handling money. VRBO should not be spoofing (blocking) the communication between owners and guests.

VRBO Marketplace? VRBO is not a marketplace

If you are an owner you should be trying harder than ever to connect personally with your guests. If you’re a guest you should be trying to establish a direct line of communication to the owner. Doing so saves money and creates relationships. Don’t let VRBO and Homeaway destroy this vacation rental industry.

Guests, get to the owner and avoid paying that stupid service feel. VRBO and Homeaway are ripping you off. For the best experience and best savings contact the owner directly.

vrbo is not a marketplace – homeaway is not a marketplace