We have contacted 6 London property owners by email using the Homeaway/VRBO sites. Each of these properties had numerous excellent reviews. After 72 hours, only 2 have responded. While we can send follow up requests ( and even phone the contacts), we aren't sure that we want to deal with some one that you have to chase for information. Just wondering if such a low level of initial response is the norm. We appreciate any comments / suggestions for those of you that have used these sources.
Posted by
Fort Wayne, IN, USA
2349 posts
We have used Homeaway several times here in the states, with good results. You have to remember that these are all individuals advertising on one site. Someone may be on vacation, or their computer may have crashed. They may have booked that week already, but haven't yet updated the site. We booked a place in Michigan, but were called back by the owner's son in Florida, because his mom "didn't do computers." Just because someone is not completely computer savvy doesn't mean their customer service otherwise is poor. In fact, an argument might be made that a place might be better because the owner spends more time on the property than on the computer. Email them again, or call, or book the ones who have responded.
Posted by
Honolulu/Seattle, HI/WA, USA
2787 posts
If the two that responded had numerous excellent reviews, I would book one of them and not waste any more of my time.
Posted by
OP
Houston, TX, United States
14 posts
Charlie, Here's the rub. The 2 that responded did not have availability. We are assuming the other 4 did not either but chose not to respond at all. Thus, our frustration continues. On to Plan B.