Here is something the booking platforms do not put in large font: when you book a vacation rental through Airbnb or Vrbo, you pay a service fee — typically 14–17% of the booking total. We also pay a host fee. So on a $1,000 booking, a guest might pay $1,150 and we receive $920. The platforms keep the difference.
That is how the system works, and it is legitimate. Those platforms have marketing reach that is hard to match. But they are not the only way to book — and they are not the cheapest way.
What Happens When You Book Direct
When you book directly at Epic Adventure Vacation Rentals, the service fee disappears. Our prices reflect the actual cost of the rental without a layer of platform economics on top. For a week-long stay, that difference can be $150–$300 depending on the property and dates.
We also receive more of what you pay, which means we can invest it back into the properties — better amenities, faster maintenance, the private chef partnership with yhangry. The math works better for both sides.
You Talk to Us Directly
One of the things guests mention consistently: when you book through a platform and something goes wrong, you go through that platform’s support system. When you book direct with us, you message Bill or Heather. We answer in minutes, not hours, and we handle things ourselves rather than routing your problem to a generic support queue.
That matters more than most people expect until they need it. It is the difference between a canned response and a real person fixing the problem the same day.
Flexible Terms
Platform bookings come with platform terms. Direct bookings let us be more human about it — we can discuss specific requests, adjust things where it makes sense, and have a real conversation about your stay before you arrive rather than exchanging scripted messages.
How to Book Direct
Browse our properties, check the dates you want, and book through our direct booking engine. If you have questions before you book — about which property fits your group best, what is happening locally during your dates, or anything else — message us. We would rather answer your questions upfront than have you arrive with unrealistic expectations.
Eight homes across five states. Personally owned and managed by Bill and Heather. No management company, no absent investor. Check availability and book the right way.
