Original Message:
Re: If you are a renter and you want an option to save 7 %, read this post. (by RedWeek Support):
Just to add another perspective as to why there is now increased focus on bookable online postings:
We have always had to monitor and try to eliminate scammers from the website, and unfortunately we have had renters who engaged in private transactions and lost all the rental money they paid.
Many owners don't realize they are also the targets of scammers just as often as renters. We have seen many cases where an owner's personal email is hacked, and the scammer will impersonate the owner and intercept rental funds intended for the owner. We are coming into the season where we see the majority of that type of activity. Our management team had to weigh all sides of the matter with the goal of safety for owners and renters alike.
When we started RedWeek online booking, it soon became apparent that it is the only safe manner for a renter to conduct a transaction and is also the only manner to eliminate scammers from our website. We have seen more and more renters opt for online bookings, and most do not mind paying the service fee, knowing their payment (sometimes substantial) is safe until they check in to the resort. The safety of our members has always been one of our main concerns, and online booking has been a means to achieve that.