I had uncomfortable text interactions with the co-hosts Mike and Julie. To preface my review, I was traveling with my 2 children, ages 9 and 10 years. The booking lists it sleeps 4. To be respectful, and this may have been where I went wrong, I asked if I could let my sister stay also. My sister then asked if she could bring her 2 and 5 year olds, which I again inquired the owners about. The point being, I asked first. Mike/Julie proceed to send me VERY long texts, clearly worried that I’m going to break their rules and destroy their house. I didn’t want any trouble, so I told my sister she could not stay over and tried to reassure the owners that I’d take care of their house. Mike/Julie then sent a text stating that I’d have to pay if my sister and kids came over during the day, even if they DON’T stay the night. They said they’ve had years of experience, and these are their rules. Wow. I’ve never had anyone charge me for entertaining a few people during the day. I’ve heard of VRBO owners cancelling last minute or claiming damages, so I again, not wanting any trouble, I agreed to pay the extra fee per extra persons per nights reserved (which as not insignificant). Since they were charging me anyway, I told my sister she could stay overnight if she’d like. If I could cancel and get a refund to make other arrangements, I would have but this all happened 2 days before check-in and I’m travelling with children, coming from out of state. I just wanted to see my family and tried not to let these two ruin my special trip for my kids but they definitely cast a shadow leading up to it.
The home itself was adequate. It had some nice touches and beds were comfortable. Sofa and decorative pillows need to be cleaned. Pool is small but clean and good for small kids (who they don’t really want on property).
There are far too many beautiful homes to choose from to have to deal with disagreeable hosts. I felt discriminated against for having children. This should have been a relatively minor misunderstanding but who knows what more they would have done if I didn’t try to diffuse and appease them.
I’d pass on this one…you may get them on a good day but the risk for added stress on what should be your nice getaway is not worth it at their price point.