We frequently use VRBO to stay at places in this price range, including a different WBV unit a few years ago. We had a few issues with this one. First, we arrived just after the 3pm check-in time (listed in the rental agreement), only to be told the unit wouldn't be cleaned until 4:30pm. The front desk folks aren’t responsible for the cleaning staff so they recommended we call the rental agent.
Our rental agent Geoff was responsive and helpful and arranged for the bellman to drop our groceries and store our luggage while the place was cleaned. However, at 4:30pm nothing had changed and it took another phone call for us to get the keys and move in just before 5pm. I suppose these issues could be related to coronavirus (extra cleaning needed? Difficulty hiring cleaners?). But if that’s the case, it should be clear in advance so we can take a later flight.
Issue 2: The Wi-Fi password was listed incorrectly in the welcome materials. The maintenance person we called to help tried to help but didn’t even know where the WiFi point was located—we all had to hunt. We ended up going through the first night with no Wi-Fi and spotty cell service. The next morning we found the correct Wi-Fi password on a laminated card in the front pocket of the welcome book. For this issue and for the check-in problems, Geoff provided a credit, which is fair enough.
Third, there were a few kitchen issues: the built in ice maker didn't work (and there were no ice trays), the dishwasher soap tray didn’t open. The welcome book does provide a link where renters can place a work order, but who wants deal with refrigerator or dishwasher repairs during vacation?
Fourth, the downstairs neighbors, a group of young adults, started playing loud music one afternoon. A staff person came by and told them politely to turn it down. We overheard one of the residents treating the staff disrespectfully saying that she was “an owner” and could do whatever she wanted. Thankfully, the the problem did not recur.
Finally, a maintenance person rang the bell on the last day saying he needed to look at a smoke detector in the master bedroom because it is dirty and not functioning. It seemed odd that these repairs can’t be done when the place is unoccupied.
The location is beautiful and the place is nice, and exactly as shown in the photos, but because of the quirks, we would probably choose a different unit next time.