Menu
Write a review
File a complaint
VRBO Customer Service Phone, Email, Contacts

VRBO
Reviews and Complaints

www.vrbo.com

Learn how the rating is calculated

1.4 3 Reviews 298 Complaints
Claim Your Business
Take control of your profile: address complaints and engage with reviews
Write a review File a complaint

VRBO Reviews 3

ComplaintsBoard
J
11:33 am EDT
Verified customer This review was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

VRBO Cancellation

I am a long-time host of VRBO and have done very well with them marketing my property, (business) but they are really becoming greedy. Not only do they collect $ from renter and host on every rental but a very large annual fee from every host.
Ok is tough to swollen but NOW...

I have had renters cancel with me because of various reasons, NO PROBLEM but PROBLEM for VRBO. last month they suspended me for a week and just today sent me a invoice for $50 for a renter who submitted a request for a date and realized within hours the dates were wrong, but I was booked, so the reservation was cancelled, no funds paid.

I called and deal with their offshore customer service who both times removed the suspension and the cancellation fee but come on, the greed.
They stated the cancellation fee is due to them losing money as well
When host are renting properties, they forget it's a business or us too, but it is our business and our property, we pay them to market for us, thats it. They are crossing the line with host.
I will not be renewing with them. Always good to have choices

Read full review of VRBO
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
D
11:42 am EDT
Verified customer This review was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

VRBO Total scam - had to cut our family vacation short after one day!

Property Address: 12310 Memorial Highway, Tampa, FL
Business Names: Luxury Lodging Host LLC (L24000324709), Luxury Lodging PM, Luxury Lodgings LLC, Umbrella PM Inc., Qnique Homes
Operators: Louis Pellegrino & Darko Novakovic
Website: www.luxurylodgingpm.com

I am filing this complaint as a warning to the public: DO NOT book any rental properties from Luxury Lodging Host, Umbrella PM Inc., Qnique Homes, or any other name this group hides behind. These companies are all run by Louis Pellegrino and Darko Novakovic, and they are knowingly deceiving customers with false advertising, unsafe properties, and zero accountability.

I booked what was supposed to be a high-end 13-bedroom waterfront "resort" in Tampa, FL. The photos and listing made it seem like a luxury estate for large groups. In reality? It was a complete disaster:

The pool was broken and unusable
The theater was non-functioning
The entire place was filthy, with stained bedding and towels, mold, broken furniture, and exposed electrical wiring
There was a massive pile of trash bags (60+) in front of the property
One room literally looked like a jail cell with cement bunk beds
We paid extra for firewood, and it was never delivered
The property smelled terrible and was absolutely unfit for guests
When we contacted the company for help, they were dismissive and unhelpful. They refused any kind of refund or real support.
We later found out from Hillsborough County Code Enforcement that the property was not even safe for occupancy. That says it all.
The worst part? They keep changing business names to bury bad reviews and escape public backlash. I’ve since learned they’ve operated under at least five different names:
Qnique Homes
Luxury Lodging Host LLC
Luxury Lodging PM
Luxury Lodgings LLC
Umbrella PM Inc.
This is a deliberate strategy to avoid accountability and continue scamming guests.
If you’ve had a similar experience, I highly recommend you file complaints with:
Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR)
Hillsborough County Code Enforcement
Florida Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division
BBB, Yelp, VRBO, Airbnb, scam report, and more
This was the worst rental experience of my life, and no one should ever have to go through it. DO NOT trust this company or any version of it. Total scam.

Read full review of VRBO
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
E
5:59 pm EDT

VRBO Renters’ rights not guaranteed

I rented a place for our holiday vacation on VRBO. VRPO website did not provide all the information about this rental place. When I got there, there were NO sheets, towels, and toiletries. When I called VRBO to make a complaint, the Customer Service representative led me to their manager. I was told this was a minor issue to them although it sounds like a big issue to customer. They just fluffed off the issue. They charge a big service fee, but do not guarantee everything listed on the website is true. Horrible place to rent! Definitely will not use VRBO anymore!

Read full review of VRBO
Hide full review

VRBO Complaints 298

ComplaintsBoard
G
7:55 pm EDT
Verified customer The reviewer confirmed their account using Google. Learn more

VRBO My trip to Sydney at art deco by the beach

I booked this property some months ago and have paid for the acdomodation and I have just received an e mail from the host saying that he has let it on another platform. I have a confirmed booking from you and he cannot do that
I need this sorting out asap please
In addition it appears that the price now advertised is vastly cheaper than the price I paid

Claimed loss: £2000

Desired outcome: I want my booking. I am 75 and my sister is 80 and we are celbrating our birthdays together We are travelling up from Melbourne where she lives to have the celebration with my son who lives in SydneyThis is just not good enough

Read full review of VRBO and 1 comment
View 0 more photos
Hide full review
1 comment
Add a comment
R
R
R. Weimann
Send a message
May 21, 2025 4:37 am EDT
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

Getting double booked is the worst form of ‘dining out’. The host does not have the authority to throw away your paid reservation just because they found a different booking somewhere else. That is a breach of contract. VRBO should intervene right now and either compel the host to respect your booking or relocate you without any fees, preferably first refunding the difference. Don’t let them waste time because they need to resolve this quickly.

ComplaintsBoard
D
6:00 pm EDT
Verified customer The reviewer confirmed their account using Google. Learn more

VRBO Rental Home Westminster Colorado, May 11-15, 2025

A group of 6 Seniors rented this home as a place to spend our annual Spring Fling. The description of the property lead us to believe that it would be a very fun and whimsical place to spend our time. My wife and I checked into the home 1 day before the others were to arrive from Arizona, New Mexico and Texas. We are from Washington State.

We drove by the property 2 hours before check in time to see what it looked like from the outside. To our dismay the grounds were very unkept with weeds fallen trees, cracked concrete in the front. We had not seen an exterior view on the website but had looked at the interior pictures when we rented.

When we checked in, the first thing to be concerned about was a distinct musty odor throughout the home. We then checked out the rooms and were OK with the looks of the bedrooms, bathrooms and living areas. We then looked at the lower level bedrooms and theatre and were dismayed at the cold temperature and stronger odor. We developed a plan of who would sleep where skipping the lower level as it would not be adequate for any of us. The backyard was worse then generally the front in that there were weeds, leaves and broken lawn furniture. Also there was no grill as promised by the property manager. We sill decided to go ahead with the rental even though we were very unhappy with the property.

My wife and I then spent the evening in the home. When we woke up, the odor was worse, and I developed a cough from breathing in the air. We could not open any windows since there were no screens to keep bugs out. I texted the property manager and told him of my concerns. He told me that he could get someone there in 2 days. I told him that was unacceptable. I discussed the situation with our friends and we decided that they should not travel as the home was unusable. I then communicated with the Property Manager and he agreed to cancel the reservation. We then spent the remainder of our time booking a hotel, changing our flight reservations and car reservation. We cleaned up the two rooms we used and repacked and left the property.

Since that time, I have communicated with VRBO through chat at least 5 times (case number 139652729) to gain restitution. I was told first that we would be refunded the $2,200 that we paid. On the next communication I was told that the refund would subtract $319 for the night we stayed. When the refunds were credited back to my account, I received $554 less than the rental amount and was told they subtracted the one night plus $233 for a cleaning fee. Nowhere in any description of the property was a cleaning fee mentioned.

I have communicated with VRBO representatives numerous times and was told that a higher level of customer service would respond to me. No one has reached out. I am sending this to you in hopes that we can put this to rest. I think that I should be refunded the total amount and not have to pay anything for this totally unacceptable property. In other words you shoud refund the difference of $553 to me. You should also take the listing of this home off of VRBO and not subject another customer the totally unaccetale accomodations.

Thank you,
David Vandemoortel

Claimed loss: $554

Desired outcome: Refund $554 to me.

Confidential Information Hidden: This section contains confidential information visible to verified VRBO representatives only. If you are affiliated with VRBO, please claim your business to access these details.

Read full review of VRBO and 1 comment
Hide full review
1 comment
Add a comment
G
G
G. Nitzsche
Send a message
May 21, 2025 4:45 am EDT
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

David, you have every right to speak up because this is infuriating. You purchased a nice retreat and instead of a relaxing atmosphere you walked into what can only be described as a moldy dump, and the worst part is, someone put a sign saying “advertised fun get away” slapped on top. It is disgusting how VRBO is throwing a lawsuit at you for paying to stay in an uninhabitable property with no refund policy. And don’t get me started on the so-called “hidden” cleaning fee after you paid to stay in a place infested with health hazards, that’s just unethical.

You are entitled to that missing 553 dollars and the company is inarguably in the wrong here. Honestly, that property should have never been listed and claimed as available to rent in the first place, which is why it is infuriating how VRBO keeps stalling instead of directly resolving David’s claim. Everyone knows that the company doesn’t care about good customer service, so make sure you follow up relentlessly. Don’t back down because they aim to disregard this claim. You didn’t cancel, you had to bail out of a health risk situation which changes everything.

ComplaintsBoard
C
2:56 pm EDT

VRBO Disagreement about rental fee. Reservation #HA-TWVKLQ

Property #9101051 I booked reservations on subject property in January 2025 for the stated rate of $5,243.36 for thirty days starting on Feb27-March 27. The host Tito, said he disagreed with the amount that VRBO had stated and eventually terminated the reservation. I then contacted the host to tell him about a situation that I needed a house with the Master BR on the first floor. He then replied that he would rent the property for $7,000 including all fees when he answered my message. I asked him to contact VRBO to tell them our agreement and he said he would. In an effort for to guarantee the bookings, I went ahead and booked the property as listed by VRBO to make sure I would have the reservation. The price from VRBO was over $10,000 but I was not going to pay that amount since I had the hosts agreement of $7j, However, VRBO apparently never changed the total amount and I was charged by VRBO the full amount. I had agreed to finance the $7k through AFFIRM. I kept waiting for VRBO to reduce the price and after moving in they said they had a credit for me from the host. In the meantime the host notified me that he got the full $7,000 from VRBO. I have yet to get ANY credit back from VRBO or the host. I ould like to have the $3,000plu back from the rental. Charles Johnson

Claimed loss: $3,500.

Desired outcome: I would like to get a $3,500 refund.

Confidential Information Hidden: This section contains confidential information visible to verified VRBO representatives only. If you are affiliated with VRBO, please claim your business to access these details.

Read full review of VRBO
Hide full review

Is VRBO Legit?

VRBO earns a trustworthiness rating of 91%

Highly recommended, but caution will not hurt.

Our conclusion: After a detailed review, ComplaintsBoard finds VRBO to be a trustworthy company. Although there's a 11% resolution rate for customer complaints, which deserves attention, VRBO is known for their high standards and safety. If you're thinking about dealing with VRBO, it's wise to check how they handle complaints.

We found clear and detailed contact information for VRBO. The company provides a physical address, 2 phone numbers, and 2 emails, as well as 6 social media accounts. This demonstrates a commitment to customer service and transparency, which is a positive sign for building trust with customers.

VRBO has received positive review on our site. This is a good sign and indicates a safe and reliable experience for customers who choose to work with the company.

Vrbo.com has a valid SSL certificate, which indicates that the website is secure and trustworthy. Look for the padlock icon in the browser and the "https" prefix in the URL to confirm that the website is using SSL.

Vrbo.com has been deemed safe to visit, as it is protected by a cloud-based cybersecurity solution that uses the Domain Name System (DNS) to help protect networks from online threats.

We looked up VRBO and found that the website is receiving a high amount of traffic. This could be a sign of a popular and trustworthy website, but it is still important to exercise caution and verify the legitimacy of the site before sharing any personal or financial information

However ComplaintsBoard has detected that:

  • While VRBO has a high level of trust, our investigation has revealed that the company's complaint resolution process is inadequate and ineffective. As a result, only 11% of 298 complaints are resolved. The support team may have poor customer service skills, lack of training, or not be well-equipped to handle customer complaints.
  • VRBO protects their ownership data, a common and legal practice. However, from our perspective, this lack of transparency can impede trust and accountability, which are essential for establishing a credible and respected business entity.
  • We conducted a search on social media and found several negative reviews related to VRBO. These reviews may indicate issues with the company's products, services, or customer support. It is important to thoroughly research the company and its offerings before making any purchases to avoid any potential risks.
ComplaintsBoard
P
8:49 am EDT
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

VRBO Property 2658086 booked for 26/4/2025 to 3 May 2025. Reservation number HA-K1051M

This is my second attempt to complain as I first tried on 27 April but have had no response. Property described on VRBO website as 2 bedroom, pet friendly with parking. Prior to arrival host offered upgrade so we would have expected better than description. On arrival we climbed a dingy staircase to a 3rd floor apartment (no lift) with just one bedroom and a bench in the sitting area, parking only on street and not much of it with none close by, and pet not very welcome (dog not allowed to bark). We could not accept this and tried to explain to our host on the telephone as he had left the premises. Our trust in VRBO has been completely destroyed.

Claimed loss: £575

Desired outcome: Refund

Confidential Information Hidden: This section contains confidential information visible to verified VRBO representatives only. If you are affiliated with VRBO, please claim your business to access these details.

Read full review of VRBO
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
H
8:55 pm EDT

VRBO Dishonest and unprofessional customer service

I had made two reservations through this website and both were canceled after they were confirmed by the host.

I raised both cases with vrbo who could not find equivalent bookings and had the gall to cancel the reservation through my account and lied about it. The host was not penalized and their customer support summarily closed the case on me without responding to my complaint.

Desired outcome: To undo the cancellation done through my account and oblige the host to cancel on their end as they were the ones to fraudulently post a listing.

Confidential Information Hidden: This section contains confidential information visible to verified VRBO representatives only. If you are affiliated with VRBO, please claim your business to access these details.

Read full review of VRBO
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
V
9:20 am EDT
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

VRBO Vacation rental

Booked a vacation rental in Feb 2025. Upon arrival condo was not cleaned and dirty linens were on the bed and dirty towels on the floor. Left immediately as we had one hour to prepare for engagement party. Notified host and she would not refund us condo cost. Offered us $100 for dinner while she had condo cleaned. Due to time constraints that was not acceptable and we had to book a hotel so we could prepare for party. Left next day as we couldn't afford to stay longer as money was spent on condo. Also the exterior of the property was not how it was portrayer in the photos. Not very desirable.

Claimed loss: $580.16

Desired outcome: would like a refund as we were not able to use condo.

Confidential Information Hidden: This section contains confidential information visible to verified VRBO representatives only. If you are affiliated with VRBO, please claim your business to access these details.

Read full review of VRBO
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
A
8:57 am EDT

VRBO Host cancelled the booking

I booked an apartment in Florence on 5th March for myself and 2 friends. The property is #[protected]. I received a confirmation email and consequently booked flights for 12-15 May 2025.

2 days ago (10 April) after coming back from a trip realised I hadn't had any communication with the host. I sent a message stating our expected arrival time on 12th May. The following morning I received a message saying the booking was cancelled as it had been booked on another platform for those dates. There were 5 weeks between the booking date and the cancellation date. How can this possibly happen? I have had my money refunded.

Luckily enough I have been able to book somewhere on a different platform but I was not left with a lot of choice and could easily have had to pay much more.

The host should not be allowed to do this. People need to be aware of this. Your booking could be at risk.

Claimed loss: We have had to pay £70 more for this new booking.

Desired outcome: Compensation of the £70 extra paid.

Confidential Information Hidden: This section contains confidential information visible to verified VRBO representatives only. If you are affiliated with VRBO, please claim your business to access these details.

Read full review of VRBO
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
J
2:54 pm EDT
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

VRBO Host cancellation penalty

I am a host (property ID 2127671) with a short-term rental property platform VRBO. I have an issue with VRBO regarding a cancelled reservation May 22, 2024; The guest was C.G. I was contacted 5/22 by C.G. at 4:54 PM to request a last minute reservation 5/25 - 5/29. I responded affirmatively to accept reservation at 4:58 PM. Approximately 5 min later I realized I could not accommodate this guest and sent guest an apology and I attempted to cancel the reservation. The VRBO platform was having technical difficulties, and the cancellation would not process immediately. I called VRBO and the agent told me there were technical issues processing my request and it may take 3 - 4 hours to process the cancellation. Eventually the VRBO site processed the cancellation. My complaint involves a 'host' cancellation policy that VRBO initiated 9/23/2023. Basically, VRBO will penalize the host with a monetary fee. They are trying to reduce guest complaints involving hosts cancelling reservations and inconveniencing the guest. The VRBO penalty is on a sliding scale based on when the host cancelled reservation prior to arrival. The closer the cancelation gets to the check-in date the higher the penalty becomes. The host does have a waiver policy of the penalty, but it must be received no later than 30 days after event. Evidently, VRBO has determined that I owe a penalty of 40% ($640.00) for cancelling a reservation. I received an invoice from VRBO in June and I deleted the e-mail immediately due to my suspicion this was a scammer / hacker trying to get my credit card info. Basically, this penalty is unfair to me especially since the cancellation was made 30 minutes after guest requested to book last minute. I believe my issue is an event that falls into a grey area and requires senior management review. I called VRBO 8/29 and the agent told me they would review / consider my situation. They responded that since I did not initiate a waver within 30 days there is nothing, that they could do since I did not complete a wavier within 30 days.

Claimed loss: $640.00 host cancellation fee

Desired outcome: Eliminate / reduce this fee

Confidential Information Hidden: This section contains confidential information visible to verified VRBO representatives only. If you are affiliated with VRBO, please claim your business to access these details.

Read full review of VRBO
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
S
4:00 am EDT
Verified customer The reviewer confirmed their account using Google. Learn more

VRBO Rental unit a safety and health hazard

Incident Date: Wed, Aug 28, 2024
Listing details: https://t.vrbo.io/ZBXjuaVVsMb
Apartment Address:4220 Rue Frontenac, Montréal, QC H2H 2M3, Canada
I rented this apartment for a family vacation through VRBO. Upon arrival we found that the apartment is unsafe for my family and I to live in since,
1. It has no main access other than the unsafe metal stares on the side of the building. Meaning that incase of a fire, we will be stuck.
2. The apartment is on the 2nd floor above a refrigeration warehouse and potentially other hazardous materials. Risk of fire and chemical spillage/leakage
3. Property does not match the listing
Owner refuses to refund me. Even after I contacted him and tried to resolve this. He remains adamant that I don't qualify for my refund
Contacted the City to evaluate if this qualifies as a dwelling place.

Claimed loss: C$ 2,400

Desired outcome: 1. Have Vrbo stop allowing such listing's. Putting people's lives in danger.2. Have the hosts post both internal and external pictures of the property2. Refund of what we paid

Confidential Information Hidden: This section contains confidential information visible to verified VRBO representatives only. If you are affiliated with VRBO, please claim your business to access these details.

Read full review of VRBO
View 0 more photos
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
R
2:48 pm EDT
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

VRBO No A/C as promised

I booked a family reunion in March of this year (through booking.com), at White Sands Oasis in Alamogordo, NM for the week of June 20th - June 27th. This property was close to my brother's home which is why I booked it. There were to be 6 adults, 2 over 70yrs old and 2 senior dogs. To my surprise, when we arrived at the property, the house temperature was reading 92 degrees. Since we were very tired from driving from Albuquerque, I didn't really think too much about it. The next day was busy and we were gone during the hot part of the day. Upon our return to the property, the inside temperature was still 92 degrees. I tried adjusting the temperature and it didn't do any good.

Saturday, the 22nd, we were gone most of the day, again, the house read 92 degrees. The rest of our guests were driving from Louisiana on Monday, the 24th. So, I contacted our host, Myrna, and reported the problem on Monday.

I had done some research and is was possible that the freon needed a recharge, etc... a repairman came on Monday afternoon and I had to stay put to let him in. He said that it was low on freon and recharged the system assuring me that it would be working in a few hrs. By the time the rest of my guests showed up, the house was still 92 degrees and sweltering. My neice with the 2 dogs, had to get a motel room for the night and the rest of us toughed it out. I spent the next 2 days going back and forth via text with Myrna trying to get this resolved. She couldn't get anyone out until the following week to look at the A/C, so upon our suggestion, got portable A/C units, (swanp coolers) into the house on Tuesday late afternoon. The house didn't cool down enough for the 2 elder dogs, so my Neice, hubby and dogs stayed at my brother's, which was not in the plan. I was up most of the night filling the swamp coolers with a 4 cup container, which was all I found. On top of that, the coolers blew a circuit breaker to the microwave, stove and refrigerator, melting the bag of ice, provided, and all the food in the freezer. Myrna had a property open up on Wednesday about.5 miles away and we had one night together with A/C. In the mean time, I was on the phone with booking.com, explaining the situation. They sent me an e-mail explaining that they tried contacting Myrna and no response. Her voicemail box was full and has not responded to any of my text messages, or even read them. I feel that I didn't get what I paid for, which was a home with air conditioning in the middle of the desert which a night was hotter inside then outside. I just want a refund for 6 days out of the 7.

I did a review on Booking.com as well. There was a broken toilet seat in the main bathroom, which I could have easily forgiven had there just been A/C.

I will gladly provide the confirmation number and pin code if asked.

Claimed loss: $200.00 in groceries. 6 days no air conditioning @ $1481.76

Desired outcome: As I have requested via text to Myrna, I would like to be refunded for the 6 nights without A/C minimal 1481.76 Thank you

Confidential Information Hidden: This section contains confidential information visible to verified VRBO representatives only. If you are affiliated with VRBO, please claim your business to access these details.

Read full review of VRBO
View 0 more photos
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
J
7:46 pm EST
Verified customer The reviewer confirmed their account using Google. Learn more

VRBO Refund policy for rental: emergency medical circumstance

I booked a Vrbo for 2/19 -2/23

My husband had to have emergency colon surgery on 1/31 so I had to cancel our Vrbo

Understand I am past the “normal” cancellation policy parameters since I’m only 2/ 1/2 weeks out from stay

In the case of emergency medical there should be some refund of a portion of the booking

My host has not replied to my inquiry of a refund

My email: [protected]@gmail.com

Booked studio in Siesta Key from 2/19-2/23

Host: Daniel Jones

Property 9703800

Please reply how I can proceed to get a refund. I can supply medical information from hospital/doctor

Desired outcome: Refund of approx $1,700 rental fees

Confidential Information Hidden: This section contains confidential information visible to verified VRBO representatives only. If you are affiliated with VRBO, please claim your business to access these details.

Read full review of VRBO
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
S
2:55 pm EST
Verified customer The reviewer confirmed their account using Facebook. Learn more

VRBO Unsafe vacation rental

2416 S Wallen Dr, Palm Beach Gardens, FL, owned by Angela Anthony. This property has an incorrectly installed range/oven. Ms. Anthony swears it's right and it works. I am a retired kitchen and bath designer. I know that, if it's installed correctly, everything works. I also know that if the circuit is not isolated and has improper amperage, the oven won't heat up properly. This is what happened here. I put a pan of lasagna in the oven to reheat at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. At the end of that time, I was able to remove the pan with my bare hands. I tried again at 500 degrees for the same time with the same results. This range is NOT installed correctly. The shower drain burps and bubbles. When it does, sewer gases come into the room. Something is seriously wrong with the installation. Sewer gases can kill, and so can electrical fires. When I tried to tell Ms. Anthony about this, she became extremely abusive and implied that I was too stupid to be there alone and needed someone to help ma and care for me. If you will look at her reviews, you will see that I am not the only person she has treated like this. I have used VRBO for years, all over this country and Europe. I have NEVER had such a bad experience or been treated like this. It makes me hesitant to use it again. If you don't police your client's behavior, why should I trust your listings? Also, she says that, if anyone asks, renters are to say they are "visiting Angie". If this is a legal rental, why is that necessary?

Claimed loss: None

Desired outcome: I want this woman stopped from endangering people's lives, and I want her to stop abusing people she doesn't even know for having a different opinion and/or NICELY warning her that something is wrong.

Confidential Information Hidden: This section contains confidential information visible to verified VRBO representatives only. If you are affiliated with VRBO, please claim your business to access these details.

Read full review of VRBO
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
J
1:42 pm EST
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

VRBO Rental scam

I booked a vacation rental through vrbo.com for 7 nights. When check in time came the host said the listing has been deactivated and will not cancel the reservation so a refund will not be distributed. I am now stranded. The rebooking team has not responded and all representatives have not been helpful after more than 5 hours of call time. No supervisor is available and most calls are ended by the representative, they simply hang up on me.

Claimed loss: $553 +

Desired outcome: refund

Read full review of VRBO
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
D
4:43 pm EST
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

VRBO Issue with property being doubled booked and not receiving refund!

We made reservations through VRBO and paid in full for Wednesday November 22 and Thursday the 23rd. When we were close to arriving at the property we texted, via instructions on property website. We did not hear back after waiting 45 minutes so we contacted VRBO. They provided another number but still did not hear back, so VRBO finally made contact. When we did speak with the property owners we were told they were already booked with a traveler through AirB&B, which had been booked for over a month. They explained they had contacted VRBO to list the property a couple of months ago but never heard back, so they had no idea that VRBO had finally listed the property therefore creating a double booking. The property owner went out of their way to accommodate us for Wednesday evening or we would have had no place to stay. We were instructed by VRBO to call back Thursday (Thanksgiving day!) to see about arrangements for that night. When we called we were told “tough”. You were credited a partial credit for the one night. We were supposed to be credited for the taxes, fees and cleaning but have not as of date! There were no places available on VRBO. We found a place available on AirB&B, but the norm is a 2night minimum! We are out a lot more money, duplicate of fees, cleaning fee etc. as a result of which VRBO is responsible.

11-26-23 After over an hour with a dropped called and of course no call back, VRBO now say they will not refund any of the fees (for two nights). They have said a supervisor will call back sometime today, but we were told this Thursday and that did not happen.

Claimed loss: $175.00 + $104.33 in fees= Total 279.33

Desired outcome: We want the fees refunded. We did not change this booking nor did we cancel. Problem was created by VRBO/Expedia with the owners. Our money was taken but the reservation could not be honored! How is that our fault?

Read full review of VRBO
View 0 more photos
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
E
12:41 am EST

VRBO Unable to access property

I booked a VRBO property and paid in full. When I arrived in Baja Mexico after a very long day of travel I was unable to access the property. The entry code provided did not work. Multiple phone calls and contact to the host provuded through VRBO went unanswered. A neighbor to the property who had previously stayed in this VRBO property was able to contact the owner through a different phone number than the one on the VRBO app (which I had left several unanswered messages with) So the owner and I then communicated through What's App. She apologized but thsts it. VRBO refused to offer any assistance to me as a stranded single traveler in a foreign country. Unbelievably bad service!

Claimed loss: $367 + $500

Desired outcome: $867 refund

Read full review of VRBO
View 0 more photos
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
S
1:34 pm EDT

VRBO Apartment smelled of cleaning products and vomit, not as described

Reservation HA-611ZRL

We arrived at the apartment on October 20. My wife, another guest, and I had been sick since that morning. We dropped my wife off to wait, while the other 4 adults in our group took an hour to drop the rental cars off. When we returned, we all smelled that the apartment had a pungent smell of cleaning fluid and what we thought was vomit. When you are not feeling well, this is the last thing you want to smell.

The space where the 5th person was supposed to sleep in, was a basement room, not an office, and had no privacy. See the photo. The description and photos on the host's site, are unclear. There is no photo of the basement and futon bed. Under the room description, she lists it as three bedrooms.

However, the third bedroom is an open space with a double futon bed that takes up nearly the entire basement room. There was a massive cobweb hanging over the bed. The bathroom was filthy. See the photos.

I immediately contacted the host at 4 pm and shared our concerns. She declined to take any action to cancel or refund the reservation. I contacted VRBO Chat and Dennis B over the next 40 minutes explained steps that the host could take to cancel the reservation. I sent the host all the information. She wrote that she contacted VRBO and according to her VRBO stated that she did not have to cancel the reservation. I phoned the host and asked if she could charge us for the first night and rent the apartment out for the other nights, but she declined.

We booked 3 rooms in a hotel and left the keys in the apartment.

I realize that VRBO has a cancelation policy. But how does their policy allow for when a place does not fit the description that the host has on her VRBO listing? How do you take a photo of an apartment that smells? You don't know this until you step into the apartment.

At the very least, charge us for the first night, but refund the cleaning fee of Euro 75 and the cost of nights 2-3 and lodging tax.

Claimed loss: We had to book 3 hotel rooms in the place of the VRBO stay.

Desired outcome: VRBO can charge us for the first night as a loss, but at a minimum refund the cleaning fee and the cost of night 2 and 3 and the VRBO fees.

Read full review of VRBO
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
V
2:17 pm EDT
Verified customer The reviewer confirmed their account using Google. Learn more

VRBO VRBO rental

This letter I wrote to the CEO of VRBO states almost everything:

September 11, 2023

VRBO CEO Brian Sharpels

1011 West 5th Street, Ste. 300

Austin, TX 78703

Mr. Sharpels,

I rented a small apartment in Medellín, Colombia from VRBO through your premier host, Barry Brachfeld. He promised to help me arrange airport transportation. That's when he called me an [censored] for using all capital letters in one desperate email when he did not respond to messages. He left horrible disparaging emails on VRBO's website to me of which I copied some of them but then he tried to delete them. Unfortunately for him, VRBO's representatives told me that they indeed read the messages since he could delete them from me but not from them. They told me that what he wrote was terribly unacceptable. After the comment for using all caps, he also stated, "You told vrbo you didn’t stay here ? But how did we get your passport? What ever medication your on. Maybe just take half ?". He also suggest that I should never us VRBO because I was the type of traveler that needed to stay at a hotel. (VRBO Premier Host?)

Since Barry B eventually told me to take an Uber from the airport, that is precisely what I did. And I arrived to an apartment that was shut, no one there, and I waited outside for almost 25 minutes. It was getting dark and I was in a foreign country. I've traveled extensively (using VRBO with excellent results) and have never been in such a situation. In addition, Barry B apparently gave my number to some driver who was supposed to pick me up at the airport. I was standing outside of the rental already arrived when I got a text from the driver saying that he was at the airport with a sign with my name on it. I told him Barry B told me to uber myself. He then threatened me by saying that I owe him the money for the cab ride because he went to the airport. He stated that he knew where I was staying and that he was coming to collect HIS money.

I called VRBO, because in addition to all of this drama, a young man came over to me on the street and began talking with me. He said his name was "Frank" and that he had the key to the unit. He let me in and then demanded $200 USD as a deposit for the key and the unit. I told him that this was NOT the procedure I've ever used in the past. He would not give me a key unless I paid in cash. I did and made him sign a piece of paper acknowledging receipt of my $200.00 USD. In addition, he took pictures of my credit card. So now with VRBO, I related all of this ridiculous information to the representative that was still on the phone. I told her that I did not feel comfortable staying in this apartment (in addition, it was musty and disgusting looking) since I was being extorted for money. She totally concurred and sympathized with me. She told me that she would find a hotel for me for the night. I waited patiently for over 20 minutes and then got disconnected. I took matters into my own hands, left that nasty rental and booked a different hotel by myself. I did not want any of this to ruin my trip (which it was doing already) so I told myself I would resolve this with VRBO when I returned to the United States.

It's been almost a month repeatedly contacting VRBO to get all of my money back. The representatives of VRBO could not have been nice but they have been totally ineffective in getting my refund. In fact, I am on hold today, September 11, 2023 at 1:06pm . . . . this call is over 26 minutes and over 20 of it is me on "hold". I will not give this up. I will be rightfully receiving my money. Frankly, I should be given a credit for all of the work I have put into this situation; hours and hours. I was in Berlin in March this year and my VRBO was outstanding and the reviewer gave me perfect ratings. I see already that Barry B also rated my stay and gave me one star in every category. Unfortunately, I was not in his place for more than one hour. I will continue to monitor VRBO and its premier host Barry B from Medellin, Colombia.

I love to travel but it will be a long time before I can trust VRBO again. I will be awaiting your reply.

Victor Budzyn III

[protected]@comcast.net

P.S. I was on the phone Monday, September 11, 2023 from 12:41 PM until 2:01 PM trying yet again to get this resolved. I have spoken to over 10 different agents at VRBO and the last was Alicia, a supervisor who had me on hold repeatedly and then came back and told me there was nothing she could do. Again, Mr. Sharpels, I will be awaiting your reply.

Desired outcome: nothing less than the return of all of the money I spent on VRBO for this transaction $565.00 USD

Read full review of VRBO
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
N
10:07 am EDT
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

VRBO Possible fraudulent property & slow reaction from vrbo leaving us out of pocket

Host failed to give accurate location of property on site

Despite repeated requests for full address Host never gave full address, but said it was Reduit Beach repeatedly. Even when asked for full address for Immigration forms was only given Soleil Apartment, Reduit beach. Then told it was in front of Rebus Gas Station. There is only a main road in front of the Gas Station and it is outside Rodney Bay, no where near Reduit beach.

Just as we had gone through UK security at Gatwick and were waiting for our flight, the host messaged to say there was an electrical problem and we couldn't stay there.

I called the help desk and have a phone/data bill now totaling £197.62. I was eventually told to go to Beach Cross Apartments for 2 nights whilst things were sorted. But when I got there they didn't know I was coming, but did offer accommodation. I had to chase constantly to try to find out any info and was offered another night as the host still hadn't given an indication for when I could access the apartment of she hadn't cancelled.

Eventually an AirBnB host offered a studio apartment.

The vacation was supposed to allow us to unwind and destress following a very traumatic year and illness. We spent the first 3 days and the flight very anxious about where we would stay.

I sat and cried on day 2 not knowing what to do.

We were almost turned back at Immigration because the address was incorrect.

The Rebus Gas Station is aprox 2 miles from Reduit Beach, We did try to locate the apartment to see if it actually existed, but couldn't find it or anything that looked like the photos.

I had to use my ipad to try to find somewhere to stay which cost me £27.40 in data.

The helpdesk just didn't seam to know what was happening, and the host was not being truthful to either us or Vrbo as to what was happening or timelines.

The relocation team didn't try to contact us until day 3 and left messages on my answerphone, which I couldn't access and asked the helpdesk to email because the answerphone wasn't working. As we only had 3 nights at the temporary accommodation we had to find something that was well below standard we had wanted or risk not having anywhere to stay.

I had to use our car hire money to pay for replacement accommodation as the refund was very slow and sent in 2 parts eventually

I had worked for 6 months doing extra hours to be able to pay for our vacation. I feel our hard earned holiday was badly ruined because of this experience.

We were out of pocket so couldn't do what we wanted to do as we had to use the cash for the replacement apartment. We weren't able to go to the CPL cricket to see our friends who were playing as we were trying to find out what was happening and no one was telling us.

We were even more stressed and my partner became ill again. Now I have to find an extra £197.62 to pay for the phone & data calls too. So I'm still stressed and very upset.

Desired outcome: I would like a proper apology for the way we were treated.I would like my phone/data reimbursed £197.62 I would like a goodwill gesture of £500 (our vacation and flights originally cost £4230.00)

Read full review of VRBO
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
A
11:07 am EDT

VRBO Customer service/tech

There is a glitch with the cancellation button. I’m unable to cancel a booking and the other party is unable to cancel. It’s been 3 days of calling only to hear from several people it’s been escalated. Vrbo is usually a pleasure to deal with. They usually get issues quickly taken care of and it’s a breeze. Im not sure what is going on now but it is not the norm for it to take this long

Desired outcome: I’d like for the cancellation button to work

Read full review of VRBO
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
B
2:05 am EDT
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

VRBO Image.png

Subject: VRBO WORST VACATION EXPERIENCE EVER

Jeff and Brian,

I apologize for this having to reach your level but unfortunately no one in your company can help me. I’ve been getting the run around since Saturday and have spent over 4 hours on the phone with your team.

Here’s what happened

Image.png

Get Outlook for iOS

I booked this property on your website well in advance of my trip. Two days before it was cancelled due to a fraudulent property listing. I was stuck finding a place on my own - asked your team many times to help. I ended up having to stay in 3 different places with my 6 guests and Uber all over town. This was because there was a concert in SF that brings 80,000 people into town.

I was told I would be re-imbursed the $1572 + an additional & $1572. I have submitted my receipts and no one will get back with me. Mind you that no where covered the additional expense I had to incur. On top of the fact very embarrassing for me to have to drag my guests all over the Bay Are

Desired outcome: Refund $3000

Read full review of VRBO
Hide full review

Overview of VRBO complaint handling

VRBO reviews first appeared on Complaints Board on Aug 7, 2007. The latest review My trip to Sydney at art deco by the beach was posted on May 20, 2025. The latest complaint won't allow negative honest post was resolved on Sep 08, 2014. VRBO has an average consumer rating of 1 stars from 301 reviews. VRBO has resolved 34 complaints.
Trust badge
Collect Your Trust Badge
Be recognized for outstanding customer service
  1. VRBO Contacts

  2. VRBO phone numbers
    +49 693 4872 3536
    +49 693 4872 3536
    Click up if you have successfully reached VRBO by calling +49 693 4872 3536 phone number 20 20 users reported that they have successfully reached VRBO by calling +49 693 4872 3536 phone number Click down if you have unsuccessfully reached VRBO by calling +49 693 4872 3536 phone number 24 24 users reported that they have UNsuccessfully reached VRBO by calling +49 693 4872 3536 phone number
    +1 (877) 202-4291
    +1 (877) 202-4291
    Click up if you have successfully reached VRBO by calling +1 (877) 202-4291 phone number 4 4 users reported that they have successfully reached VRBO by calling +1 (877) 202-4291 phone number Click down if you have unsuccessfully reached VRBO by calling +1 (877) 202-4291 phone number 13 13 users reported that they have UNsuccessfully reached VRBO by calling +1 (877) 202-4291 phone number
    Customer Service
  3. VRBO emails
  4. VRBO address
    Suite 300, 1011 W. Fifth Street, Austin, Texas, 78703, United States
  5. VRBO social media
  6. Olivia
    Checked and verified by Olivia This contact information is personally checked and verified by the ComplaintsBoard representative. Learn more
    Jun 30, 2025
  7. View all VRBO contacts
VRBO Category
VRBO is ranked 2 among 420 companies in the Travel and Tourism category

Our Commitment

We stand for unbiased reviews

We make sure all complaints and reviews are from real people sharing genuine experiences.

We help resolving issues

We offer easy tools for businesses and reviewers to solve issues together. Learn how it works.

We advocate freedom of speech

We support and promote the right for reviewers to express their opinions and ideas freely without censorship or restrictions, as long as it's respectful and within our Terms and Conditions, of course ;)

We ensure transparent and fair ratings

Our rating system is open and honest, ensuring unbiased evaluations for all businesses on the platform. Learn more.

We care about your privacy

Personal details of reviewers are strictly confidential and hidden from everyone.

We are easy, free and open to everyone

Our website is designed to be user-friendly, accessible, and absolutely free for everyone to use.