Just recently I had someone cancelling on me whilst I was in the car driving to the place. Airbnb were straight on it, instant refund, extra credit towards another place and someone rang me to try and help me book an alternative for that night (I was quicker than them and had thankfully booked the next door unit before they even rang).

I've had a few bad stays over the years (getting woken early doors by bailiffs was fun), but they've generally been sorted out really quickly.

The times I've tried the alternatives in the last few years I've come up short and regretted the lack of support.

I've used airbnb for many years (since the glory days!), but have to agree the fees are killing me now.. just give me the full price up front..