.Many villas and condos are requesting you deal directly through them and avoid the extra fees. I have always only done business directly with the owners so I will continue to do that through e-mail or phone calls.
This works (we also rent this way) with KNOWN rentals. For first time trips you are again defeating the protection that Homeaway/VRBO site booking affords.
If I was renting a new place i would use the booking site and then transition to direct bookings.
Phone is available but email contact is blocked with the new procedure. Email only through the booking site.
