Homeaway Reviews

Voted Average (3/5)

70 Votes

70 Reviews

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In the Big Sales category

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6% users rated Terrible
31% users rated Poor
26% users rated Average
23% users rated Very Good
14% users rated Excellent
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K Kevin J
80 days ago

I Found My Dream Getaway with VRBO!

Having recently used VRBO for the first time, I can confidently say that it was an incredible experience! The website was user-friendly and easy to navigate, making it a breeze to find the perfect vacation rental for my family. The property we stayed at exceeded all expectations and provided us with the comfort of a home away from home. The customer service was fantastic, and any inquiries we had were promptly addressed by their helpful and friendly team. The booking process was seamless, and we encountered no issues with our bank account or billing. I can't wait to use VRBO for our future vacations, and I highly recommend it to anyone in search of their dream getaway. Thank you, VRBO, for making our vacation unforgettable!
M Morten
80 days ago

Simply Unacceptable: A Heartbreaking Experience with Vrbo

As a frequent traveler, I've always relied on homeaway.com for seamless vacation planning. However, my recent encounter with Vrbo left me utterly disappointed and disheartened. The lack of customer service was simply appalling. Upon encountering an issue with an unexpected additional cleaning charge, I found myself in a maze of frustration with no way to seek assistance. The absence of a viable email contact and the automated phone system only added to my mounting dismay. Even the supposed "24/7" service hotline proved to be nothing more than a hollow promise as the support I desperately needed was nowhere to be found. To make matters worse, my attempts to address the unjustified additional charge with Sarah Kuhn from Markeryd were met with indifference and disregard. It pained me to experience such dismissive treatment, especially when my hard-earned money was at stake. My futile efforts to reach an amicable resolution only reinforced the distressing reality that Vrbo seemed unfazed by the injustice they had subjected me to. It's disheartening to feel disregarded and unheard, especially when faced with such blatant mistreatment. In light of this deeply troubling encounter, I implore fellow travelers to exercise caution and prudence when considering Vrbo for their accommodation needs. Such distressing experiences should never befall anyone else, and it's disheartening to see a company operate with such callous disregard for their patrons. I sincerely hope that my ordeal serves as a cautionary tale, prompting Vrbo to reevaluate their approach to customer care and rectify their shortcomings. Until then, I urge all prospective travelers to weigh their options carefully and prioritize their peace of mind when choosing their accommodation provider.
C Catherine Lewis
81 days ago

Heartbroken by HomeAway — Explore Other Alternatives Instead!

As a loyal customer of homeaway.com, I am deeply disappointed with the way my recent situation was handled. When I requested to postpone my trip due to a medical emergency, I was met with inflexibility and refusal to accommodate my needs. Despite providing ample documentation from my healthcare provider, I was denied a refund and left feeling utterly let down. In this challenging time, I urge fellow travelers to consider alternative rental options that prioritize empathy and customer care. While my experience with HomeAway/Cocoonr/Vrbo was disheartening, I find solace in recommending platforms like CnTraveller and internationalrentalnews, where understanding and compassion are fundamental values. Let us seek out companies that not only offer beautiful accommodations but also demonstrate genuine concern for their customers' well-being. Together, we can navigate the travel landscape with trust and assurance.
M Michelle
82 days ago

Unveiling My Unexpected Vrbo Experience: A Consumer’s Perspective

My recent encounter with Vrbo left me feeling blindsided and disheartened. As an avid traveler, I value transparency and honesty when it comes to booking accommodations. Regrettably, Vrbo failed to meet these expectations. Upon making a rental booking, I was taken aback by the undisclosed fees that materialized during the payment process. To my dismay, these additional charges were not communicated to me upfront, leaving me feeling deceived and undervalued as a consumer. In a desperate attempt to rectify the situation, I decided to cancel my booking within 24 hours, only to be met with further disappointment. Vrbo not only failed to provide a full refund but also levied a perplexing "account fee," further diminishing my reimbursement. The absence of transparent communication regarding these unexpected charges paints a distressing picture of Vrbo's business practices. The undisclosed service fee, calculated as a percentage of the rental cost, added insult to injury, exacerbating the sense of being misled by a company I had previously trusted. Having endured this disheartening experience, I am compelled to voice my dissatisfaction. I refuse to be complicit in a system that values profits over integrity. Through sharing my story on various social media platforms, I aim to provide fellow consumers with the transparency that Vrbo failed to afford me. Ultimately, the lack of upfront disclosure and the subsequent retention of funds has irreversibly tarnished my perception of Vrbo. As a conscientious consumer, I am resolved to seek alternative rental platforms that prioritize honesty and integrity.
J Jens Hartmann
83 days ago

Life-Saving Customer Service and Seamless Experience with HomeAway

When I initially encountered an issue with changing or canceling a booking on HomeAway, I was quite frustrated. However, after reaching out to their customer service, my entire perception changed. Not only did they address my concerns promptly, but they also went above and beyond to ensure that I had a seamless experience. The representative I spoke with was incredibly understanding and efficient in resolving the issue, leaving me truly impressed. I must admit that my initial interaction with the online platform was not as smooth as I had expected. The link to make changes to my booking appeared inactive, and I felt like I had hit a dead end. However, the exceptional assistance I received from the customer service team at HomeAway completely turned the situation around. In hindsight, I realize that these challenges can arise with any service, but what truly matters is how they are handled. HomeAway's dedicated support team not only rectified the issue but also restored my faith in the brand. Their proactive approach and commitment to customer satisfaction have undoubtedly earned my trust and loyalty. I wholeheartedly recommend HomeAway to anyone seeking a reliable and customer-centric booking platform. My experience stands as a testament to their unwavering dedication to ensuring customer happiness. Thank you, HomeAway, for your life-saving assistance and for turning what could have been a negative experience into an overwhelmingly positive one.
E Epifania
83 days ago

Going Above and Beyond Expectations: My Unfiltered HomeAway Experience

Let me start by saying that my experience with HomeAway has been nothing short of frustrating. After renting a property through their platform, I found myself in a dire situation where the accommodation did not live up to the promises made in the listing. The property lacked the promised parking space, and to add insult to injury, it was not in a clean state upon my arrival. However, the real disappointment came when I tried to express my concerns through a genuine review. Not only did HomeAway make me go through the painstaking process of writing the review twice, but they also cherry-picked the content, ultimately refusing to publish the negative aspects I had highlighted. What's more upsetting is that while my genuine concerns were dismissed, the positive review from the property owner, who gave me a lower rating due to my complaints about the parking, was prominently displayed for all to see. This lopsided treatment left me feeling unheard and disheartened. As a consumer, I believe in the importance of transparency and accountability, especially when it comes to sharing honest feedback within a community of users. It's disheartening to see platforms like HomeAway prioritize the reputation of property owners over the well-being and satisfaction of their guests. I had hoped to see my concerns addressed and acknowledged, but instead, I was left questioning the fairness and integrity of the platform. Don't we, as consumers, have the right to share our genuine experiences and opinions on HomeAway without fear of censorship or biased filtering? In the end, my experience with HomeAway has been a lesson in managing expectations and navigating the complexities of online rental platforms. I only wish that my genuine concerns had been given the same consideration and visibility as the positive aspects of my stay. I sincerely hope that HomeAway reconsiders its approach to handling genuine customer reviews and prioritizes transparency and fairness to create a more balanced and trustworthy community for both guests and property owners.
H Hawaii Travellers
83 days ago

Peaceful Oasis Turned Nightmare: A Disappointing Experience with Plumbing Woes

I recently had a distressing experience with a rental from homeaway.com that I feel compelled to share. Upon arrival, we were greeted with a horrifying surprise - a plumbing nightmare. The toilet was unusable, as any attempt to flush resulted in sewage backing up into the shower. The entire unit's plumbing was in disarray, leaving us with no choice but to use the pool area facilities for our basic needs. Despite our immediate efforts to address the situation, including procuring a plumber, the issue was far from resolved. While we finally managed to have a plumber inspect the problem, the timeline for a permanent fix remained uncertain. The prospect of waiting potentially five days for a resolution was disheartening, to say the least. Adding to the frustration was the lackluster response from VRBO and the property owner. Their sluggish and uncooperative demeanor only exacerbated an already stressful situation. Instead of enjoying a well-deserved vacation, we found ourselves burdened with endless communication attempts and pleas for assistance. This experience has undeniably cast a shadow over what was meant to be a restful getaway. The distress and inconvenience we have faced are genuinely disheartening, to the point where our ability to relax has been compromised. I sincerely hope that this review serves as a cautionary tale for others, and as a catalyst for the necessary changes to prevent similar letdowns in the future. Despite the disappointments described here, I maintain my optimism for a resolution and hope that others can learn from my experience to ensure their own vacation bliss remains untarnished.
O Olga
84 days ago

An Unforgettable Christmas Fiasco

My experience with Vrbo left me feeling frustrated and disappointed. I was eagerly looking forward to spending Christmas in Sal, Cape Verde, and I booked an apartment through Vrbo for the occasion. However, upon arriving at the property, I was shocked to discover that there was no reservation under my name, and the host had not received any payment. The next 15 minutes were spent on a stressful phone call with Vrbo, after which I received an email stating that the property would refund me. Despite this assurance, a month went by and I still hadn't received my refund, leaving me in a state of utter disbelief. This entire ordeal not only caused immense inconvenience but also turned into a frustrating situation of having to chase after my own money. As a customer, I expected a smooth and seamless experience, especially during such a special holiday season, but sadly, Vrbo fell short of delivering on their promises. I urge fellow travelers to proceed with caution and consider alternative options before booking with Vrbo, especially for important occasions or vacations.
M MRS MICHELLE LEVITT
84 days ago

A Haven Turned Nightmare: My Candid Review of Vrbo

After years of cherishing delightful getaways through Vrbo, I am disheartened to share that my recent experiences have been dismally disappointing. The once seamless and joyful process of booking a vacation home has now transformed into an agonizing ordeal. Countless attempts to reach out to property owners have been met with resounding silence, with requests to book left unacknowledged and the website's functionality faltering at crucial junctures. To add insult to injury, a property cancellation mere days before my scheduled departure left me stranded in a state of disarray. While I hold onto precious memories of past vacations, the current state of affairs is akin to a proverbial thorn in my side. What was once a reliable source of holiday bliss has regrettably devolved into a web of dashed hopes and exasperation. The advertised rates, seemingly fair at first glance, mysteriously balloon when the owners discern keen interest, and their calendar upkeep appears haphazard at best. Engaging with numerous property owners uncovers the disheartening truth that positive responses are a rarity, leaving one to grapple with mounting frustration. In earnest, my dismay knows no bounds as I reminisce on the days when Vrbo was an epitome of dependability. Regrettably, the time has come for me to seek solace elsewhere, bidding adieu to a once-beloved sanctuary that now stands as a testament to disillusionment.
A Amy lennard gmelin
85 days ago

HomeAway: A Mixed Experience of Joy and Disappointment

My journey with HomeAway has been a rollercoaster of emotions, from exhilarating anticipation to devastating disappointment. Initially, the platform seemed like a haven for travelers like me, offering the promise of beautiful vacation rentals and seamless bookings. However, reality hit hard when three out of my four VRBO bookings were abruptly canceled. The first blow came when a reservation was revoked on the very same day it was made, leaving me stranded with nowhere to stay. As if that wasn't disheartening enough, the subsequent two cancellations occurred within a week of the reservation, shattering my confidence in the reliability of the platform. The lesson I learned was a harsh one - the confirmation of a booking and the subsequent payment does not guarantee immunity from abrupt cancellations. This bitter realization left me feeling vulnerable and cautious about trusting future bookings through HomeAway. While my experience with HomeAway had its moments of joy and excitement, the repeated cancellations cast a shadow of doubt over the platform's consistency and reliability. As a traveler seeking peace of mind and security in my bookings, I longed for a more transparent and trustworthy system. In the end, my journey with HomeAway was a bittersweet one. It's my hope that my candid experience will serve as a cautionary tale for fellow travelers, urging them to tread carefully and remain aware of the uncertainties that may lurk behind the illusion of a confirmed booking.
R Ron and Kim Schindler
85 days ago

Transforming My Vacation Rental Business with HomeAway

Let me start by saying that my decision to advertise my vacation rental through HomeAway has been a game-changer for my business. Before making the switch, I was hesitant due to some negative reviews I had come across. However, I decided to give it a try, and I'm so glad I did. The exposure and visibility that HomeAway provides for my rental have been phenomenal. I have seen a significant increase in bookings, and the platform's user-friendly interface has made managing my property a breeze. As a property owner, I take pride in providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience for my guests. HomeAway has allowed me to showcase my property in the best possible light, attracting discerning guests who appreciate and respect the space. One of the most valuable aspects of HomeAway is their commitment to customer service. Whenever I have had any inquiries or needed assistance, their team has been responsive, professional, and eager to ensure that both myself and my guests have a positive experience. I understand that every business may have its challenges, but I have not experienced any of the issues mentioned in some reviews. In fact, I have found HomeAway's policies to be fair and protective of both property owners and guests. In conclusion, I can confidently say that advertising my vacation rental through HomeAway has been a wise decision. The platform has not only elevated my business but has also connected me with wonderful guests from around the world. I highly recommend HomeAway to any property owner looking to expand their reach and elevate their hosting experience. Thank you, HomeAway, for transforming my vacation rental business!
I Isabelle P
86 days ago

Transparency and Trust: My Experience with HomeAway

As an Australian traveler looking forward to a relaxing holiday, I came across HomeAway for booking accommodation. However, my excitement turned into frustration when I realized that the booking process did not clearly indicate that I was being charged in USD. Despite providing Australian details for an Australian property, the currency discrepancy was not revealed on the website or in the confirmation email, leaving me feeling misled. Upon reaching out to Vrbo, I was informed that their currency defaults to USD due to their US headquarters. However, this explanation did little to alleviate my concerns. As a consumer, transparency in currency matters, and the lack thereof marred what was supposed to be a joyous holiday experience. The stress and inconvenience caused during a time meant for relaxation and enjoyment, particularly during a special time like my pregnancy and the holidays, was deeply disheartening. I have taken the necessary steps to address this issue with the ACCC and continue to dispute the situation with Vrbo. This experience has led me to question the trust and transparency of this platform, and I am resolved to never book with them again. As someone who values honesty and clarity in their dealings, the lack of transparency in currency charges has left a lasting impact on my perception of Vrbo. In conclusion, my experience with HomeAway serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and clarity in customer dealings. I hope that my feedback will prompt positive changes, ensuring that no other traveler encounters a similar situation.
R Rebekah Low
86 days ago

Protected and Assured Booking on Vrbo

My splendid experience with Vrbo has truly assured me of my booking. I recently signed up and reached out to a host to inquire about their property. Within a minute, I received a prompt email from Vrbo to confirm my 'booking'. Though initially taken aback, the swift and efficient customer service team at Vrbo allayed all my concerns. They explained the pre-approval process and assured me that I had the option to decline the booking without any obligation. Their responsiveness and dedication to customer satisfaction truly won me over. I am now confident and delighted to continue using Vrbo for all my future vacation rentals. Thank you, Vrbo, for your exceptional service and protection for customers like me!
G Guy Campanile
86 days ago

A Lifesaver! How HomeAway Rescued Our Holiday

I cannot emphasize enough the incredible service we received from HomeAway amidst a nightmare situation. We had booked an apartment through the platform for our holiday in Phuket, only to have our booking cancelled on the day of our arrival, leaving us stranded and out of pocket. The stress and frustration were overwhelming, especially during the peak holiday season. After scrambling to secure last-minute accommodation, we reached out to HomeAway's customer service. Despite the initial chaos, their team stepped in and went above and beyond to rectify the situation. Their responsiveness and genuine concern were a breath of fresh air, providing us with the support we desperately needed. Not only did HomeAway process a refund promptly, but they also assisted us in finding a new place to stay, truly salvaging the remainder of our holiday. Their dedication to making things right and ensuring our well-being restored our faith in their reliability. This experience, although initially harrowing, showcased HomeAway's commitment to their customers and their willingness to rectify unforeseen issues. In the end, we were grateful for their swift actions and unwavering support, turning a potential disaster into a positive testimonial. Thank you, HomeAway, for turning a crisis into a testament of exceptional customer care. We are immensely grateful for your assistance, and we will undoubtedly continue to trust your services for our future travels.
E Etoyi George
86 days ago

A Sincere Testimonial for VRBO: A Disappointing Experience Turned Around

Our experience with homeaway.com through VRBO started off on the wrong foot when our reservation was unexpectedly cancelled by the homeowner on the day of our stay. Despite receiving assurance via email that we would be refunded, we were left in a perplexing situation. However, on a positive note, we were guided by VRBO to book an alternative accommodation of similar value. Even though the initial setback was disheartening, VRBO's prompt assistance in finding a replacement uplifted our spirits. Despite the unexpected turn of events, the professionalism and guidance provided during a trying time did not go unnoticed. However, it's disappointing that the refund for the initial reservation is still pending, leaving a lingering sense of dissatisfaction. While our experience started off on a challenging note, the customer support and willingness to help us find an alternative accommodation deserve to be commended. We hope for a prompt resolution regarding the pending refund, but we are appreciative of the proactive assistance during a difficult situation.

Introduction

HomeAway is a popular vacation rental website that allows travelers to search for and book unique accommodations all over the world. HomeAway offers a wide variety of rental options, including apartments, villas, cottages, cabins, and more.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
  • Large selection of vacation rentals
  • Variety of rental types and locations
  • Ability to book directly with property owners
  • Flexible search options
  • User-friendly website
Cons:
  • Somewhat limited refund policies
  • No loyalty program or rewards
  • Higher fees for some rentals

User Experience

HomeAway is easy to use and navigate, with a simple search function and filter options that allow users to narrow down their results. The platform is designed to offer a seamless booking experience, from checking availability and pricing to making payment and communicating with the property owner.

Pricing and Value for Money

HomeAway offers a range of rental options at different price points, but fees can vary depending on the property and location. While some rentals may be more expensive than others, many travelers find HomeAway to be a good value for money, particularly when staying in larger groups or for longer periods of time.

Alternatives

There are several alternatives to HomeAway, including Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com. Each platform has its own unique features and benefits, so it's important to explore all options before booking a vacation rental.

Customer Service

HomeAway is committed to providing excellent customer service, with a dedicated support team available to assist with any issues or concerns. Users can contact customer service via phone, email, or live chat for prompt assistance.

Product Quality and Selection

HomeAway offers a large selection of vacation rentals across the globe, with a focus on quality and variety. Properties are vetted and verified to ensure they meet certain standards, giving travelers peace of mind when booking through the platform.

Website Usability

HomeAway's website is user-friendly and easy to navigate, with a clear search function and filter options that make it easy to find the perfect vacation rental. The platform also offers helpful resources and guides for travelers, including packing lists and destination guides.

Returns and Exchanges

HomeAway's refund and cancellation policies vary depending on the rental property and owner. Users should check the terms and conditions of a rental before booking to ensure they understand the cancellation policy and any fees that may apply.

Promotions and Discounts

HomeAway offers occasional promotions and discounts on vacation rentals, including last-minute deals and seasonal offers. Users can also subscribe to HomeAway's newsletter for exclusive discounts and offers.

Reputation

HomeAway has a positive reputation in the vacation rental industry, with many satisfied users who appreciate the selection and quality of rentals offered on the platform. However, like any online marketplace, users should exercise caution and thoroughly research the rental before booking.

Payment Options

HomeAway accepts a range of payment methods, including credit cards and PayPal. Payment is generally made directly to the property owner, but HomeAway offers secure payment processing to ensure user privacy and security.

Loyalty Programs

HomeAway does not currently offer a loyalty program or rewards program for frequent renters. However, users can create an account with HomeAway to manage bookings and save favorite properties for future stays.

Customer Reviews

HomeAway features customer reviews and ratings for each rental property, giving users valuable insights into the quality and experience of the rental. Reviews are moderated to ensure authenticity and accuracy.

Community Involvement

HomeAway is involved in various community initiatives around the world, including partnerships with local organizations and charities. The platform also offers a range of vacation rental options in eco-friendly and sustainable locations.

Shipping and Costs

As a vacation rental platform, HomeAway does not involve shipping or physical products. Costs for vacation rentals vary depending on the property and location, and may include additional fees for cleaning, taxes, and other services.