This was my first time initiating a rental property via VRBO (other times, friends did all the heavy lifting on reservations), which I shared during my reservation. Given that I shared it was my first time, I would think a smidge more care on communication would be given (more on this below), but we survived. Overall, it was a decent experience (4-stars).
I've stayed at Sanibel before (via other friends), surprisingly enough I remembered this when we pulled up. Great location, clean space, everything one would need to enjoy a vacation. I will say that the owners weren't the best with communication through vrbo website. I'm looking now at 2 msgs I sent but weren't responded to. :( As a newbie, it was really frustrating/anxiety-inducing. The listing states a 4pm check-in, but then I received an email from the site stating it was 5pm. I messaged about this, and was told they try for 4pm but 5pm is check in time, which is super late in my opinion, given that check out is 10am) and that I would receive text with check-in code between 2-4pm. I didn't receive the check-in information. I called/text at 430pm requesting info and again at 530pm. I eventually got through after 530pm to the owner who text the info. I think it would be best if the check-in codes were both emailed and text, given that phone cell service isn't always guaranteed. There was also no forewarning about parking fee on the listing (didn't receive this until 2days before, cash-only). The site manager (to get the parking pass) was not there at the time of our arrival, so it was nerve-wracking to a degree to not have this piece taken care of.
Toaster also was not functioning (or maybe it was the outlet not working).
All in all, now that I've gotten through my first experience, I know a bit more of what to expect. I'd stay here again, with hopes the communication and check in process was better.
