We selected this place because of its location, it allowed pets, a 2 car garage plus glowing reviews promising “10 exceptional” stay on the VRBO platform.
Yet when we arrived we found the garage full of construction materials and furniture. Inside we found dust and dirt everywhere from a recent construction project. A rancid greasy oven, only 4 coffee cups/mugs (and 1 of those was chipped) for a property that can sleep 6. An overgrown backyard patio with broken string lights. Rugs that were stained and dirty. And the last night we finally discovered why the primary bed was squeaky, a broken support at the foot of the bed.
I contacted the host who replied quickly with an apology and promise his handyman would clear the garage. 48 hours later after several reminders to the host I called VRBO because the garage had not been completely cleared preventing us from parking 2 vehicles in the garage. We sent photos to the VRBO rep and they reached the host who had us contact him.
I sent him photos to support the issues he promised a credit after the stay which we have received.
So, what we learned. Reviews and pictures don’t mean anything. If there is a problem, contact VRBO and the host immediately. Take photos, lots of photos and get everything in writing. We texted with the host and used the VRBO messaging platform to make sure we had a paper trail. Refunds are processed as a credit after the stay ends and take 5 to 7 business days.