u/TroubleLoose310

I've followed this group and learned that it is extremely important to hosts that they receive only 5 star reviews. As a guest, what should one do when a property really does not deserve 5 stars, but I want to stay on good terms with the renter? For context, rented a place very near the home of my adult child. I'd love to have a regular place to stay when I come visit her. The place I rented was VERY expensive (it's a HCOL city). It was clean, but completely devoid of attractive decor. There was a Keurig, but not a single pod of coffee available for the first morning. The kitchen had practically no supplies and no dishwasher. One bath towel and 1 small towel was made available, per person. There were no house instructions provided. On arrival it was very cold and the thermostat was very confusing. Does this deserve 5 stars? The host has asked me to leave a review and I may want to stay again. For context, I've stayed at many wonderful AirBnb properties and always leave a favorable review.

I vastly prefer rental properties to hotels, so I use both Vrbo and Airbnb frequently. Often the same homes are listed on both sites. What should I consider when choosing which app to use to rent? I usually go with whichever one offers the better cancellation policy. Which is better from the host perspective? Are there more protections for both the host and the guest on one site or the other?