I am currently looking into rentals for my next visit to St.Maarten and found a villa on Vrbo. When contacting them about renting they use a company called sxmbeachrentals.com to handle all their rentals. My question is whether anyone has ever booked through sxmbeach rentals? I have booked through Vrbo many times without incident, just trying to be cautious. Any info is appreciated.

We have used them several times, no issues at all. I believe a very reputable company.

My experience with VRBO is that it is normal for the property owner to use a rental agency, so I think it doesn't make any real difference which rental agency the owner uses. Also I think that lots and lots of property owners sign up with a rental agency and then list it on VRBO as an additional way to get rentals.

In some locations, the O in VRBO has become less common, and the firm might better be called VRBA, Villa Rental By Agency.