Airbnb vs Vrbo vs Direct Booking with a Professional Property Management Company

Booking Through Airbnb

Airbnb is one of the largest booking platforms in the world, with millions of users and an easy-to-use interface that allows travelers to browse, compare, and book instantly. It’s especially appealing for those seeking unique stays, short-term rentals, and flexible options, with built-in reviews and messaging that make communication simple. In addition, this platform offers affordable shared spaces, including "rent a room" or rent the "carriage house" within a larger property. However, Airbnb does come with drawbacks—since the host pays a 15.5% fee on each booking, rates may be inflated to cover these costs. In addition, policies and cancellation terms vary by host, and customer support may be limited when issues arise.

 Booking with VRBO 

Vrbo is a family-focused platform that specializes in vacation homes and larger properties where families rent the whole house, making it especially popular with families and groups seeking spacious accommodations. It is well-known for longer stays and traditional vacation rentals. However, like Airbnb, Vrbo has service fees—often ranging from 6–12%. While the platform offers a wide selection of properties, guests may encounter diverse cancellation policies, inconsistent property quality and cleanliness, and less guest protection. There have been reports of the rental not matching the listing photos and last-minute cancellations by the host with limited guest recourse. 

Booking with a Property Management Company

Booking directly with a local property management company such as Newman-Dailey Resort Properties, comes with a variety of advantages that make it a less risky choice for travelers. Unlike Airbnb or Vrbo, there are no hidden fees, meaning guests avoid third-party service charges and lower rates that can reduce the price of the stay. In Destin, Florida, Newman-Dailey Resort Properties has been welcoming guests to the beach for more than 40 years, ensuring guests are served by unmatched local expertise and receive prompt, reliable service through 24/7 support. Locally managed properties include consistent and high standards for home maintenance and cleanliness as well as offer personalized service, direct communication from the local team and quick solutions if problems arise. In addition, direct bookings often come with exclusive perks such as discounts to area restaurants and attractions, welcome gifts and loyalty rewards such as Newman-Dailey's Many Happy Returns discount that online travel agencies don’t provide. Property management companies offer a consistent cancellation policy for all their rentals, and may work directly with the guest to move their stay to new dates if a conflict arises. For added protection, most property management companies also offer travel insurance that allows the guest to further protect their stay from unforeseen circumstances. Most importantly, property management companies are professional companies that are listed with the Better Business Bureau, providing travelers with peace of mind, consistent quality standards, clean accommodations, and reliable maintenance support throughout the entire vacation stay.

Explore the Newman-Dailey Vacation Rental Collection

While Airbnb and Vrbo provide global reach and convenience during the research phase of trip planning, booking direct with a professional property management company provides added assurances and protection for vacationers. Newman-Dailey Resort Properties offers the best value, personalized service, and peace of mind for families visiting the beaches of Northwest Florida. For travelers heading to Destin or South Walton, direct booking with Newman-Dailey ensures not only a beautiful vacation rental but also the support of a trusted local team dedicated to making the stay unforgettable. View Newman-Dailey collection of premier Destin vacation rentals online or call one of the team's friendly, local Vacation Specialists at (850) 837-1071 for recommendations and booking questions.  

See you @ the beach!