Planning your next trip to Carolina Beach, NC? If so, you’ve probably started browsing listings on popular vacation rental platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com, and Expedia. While these platforms make it easy to find a place to stay, you might not realize that you’re paying more than you need to when you book through them.
At North Carolina Cottages, Michael and Jesslyn have been welcoming guests to the greater Wilmington and Carolina Beach area for over 26 years. Their experience and deep connection to the community have shaped their approach to hospitality, ensuring that guests enjoy a more personal, relaxed, and affordable stay. One of the best ways to maximize your vacation savings is by booking directly with them!
The Hidden Costs of Third-Party Booking Platforms
Online travel agencies (OTAs) like Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com, and Expedia have become go-to resources for vacation rentals. However, these platforms charge significant service fees and commissions that get passed along to you — the guest. Here’s a closer look at how these extra charges add up:
1. Airbnb’s Service Fees
When you book through Airbnb, you typically pay a guest service fee of up to 14% of the booking total. For example, if your rental cost is $1,500 for the week, that’s an extra $210 in fees — money that could be spent on meals, activities, or even extending your stay.
On top of that, Airbnb also charges hosts a commission of 3% to 15% depending on the listing type and location. To cover that cost, many hosts increase their nightly rates — driving up the total price for guests.
2. VRBO’s Service Fees
VRBO (Vacation Rental by Owner) also tacks on a guest service fee ranging from 6% to 12%. That means for a $1,500 stay, you could be paying up to $180 in extra fees. VRBO’s commission structure includes a 5% host service fee with an additional 3% payment processing fee, which also lead to inflated rental costs.
3. Booking.com’s Commission and Fees
Booking.com follows a different model by charging the host a 15% commission on each booking. While guests don’t see this fee directly on their bill, hosts factor it into their pricing — raising the total cost to cover their margins.
4. Expedia’s Markups
Expedia works similarly to Booking.com, taking a cut of up to 15% to 25% of the total booking amount. Again, this hidden cost often leads to increased nightly rates for guests.
When you book directly with Michael and Jesslyn at North Carolina Cottages, you skip these fees entirely. No service charges. No platform commissions. Just straightforward pricing that saves you money.
Why Booking Direct Saves You Money
Booking directly with North Carolina Cottages allows you to avoid all the extra costs associated with third-party platforms. Let’s break down how the savings work:
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No Guest Service Fees – Save up to 14% or more by avoiding third-party booking platforms.
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No Host Commissions Included in Rates – Michael and Jesslyn set their rates fairly without needing to build in extra platform fees.
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Transparent Pricing – The rate you see is the rate you pay — no hidden charges or last-minute surprises.
Here’s an example:
| Platform | Rate Costs (7 Nights) |
Service Fee | Host Commission | Final Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airbnb | $1,500 | $210 (14%) | $45 (3%) | $1,755 |
| VRBO | $1,500 | $180 (12%) | $120 (8%) | $1,800 |
| Booking.com | $1,500 | $0 (direct to host) | $225 (15%) | $1,725 |
| Expedia | $1,500 | $0 (direct to host) | $300 (20%) | $1,800 |
| Booking Direct with North Carolina Cottages | $1,500 | $0 | $0 | $1,500 |
As you can see, by booking directly with Michael and Jesslyn, you could save anywhere from $225 to $300 or more on a single week-long stay!
The Added Perks of Booking Direct
Saving money isn’t the only reason to book direct — Michael and Jesslyn also offer exclusive perks to guests who bypass the big platforms:
Complimentary Early Check-In
When you book directly, you receive a free 2-hour early check-in — giving you extra time to settle in, hit the beach, and start your vacation on a relaxed note. Early check-ins on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO often come with extra fees or are unavailable altogether.
Personalized Service
Michael and Jesslyn aren’t just hosts — they’re locals who know Carolina Beach inside and out. When you book directly, you have direct access to their recommendations for the best restaurants, hidden beach spots, local events, and family-friendly activities.
Flexible Communication
Third-party platforms often restrict direct contact between guests and hosts until after booking. By booking direct, you can communicate with Michael and Jesslyn from the start — making it easy to ask questions, adjust booking details, and get insider advice.
Better Cancellation and Refund Policies
Large booking platforms have rigid, platform-enforced cancellation policies. When you book direct, Michael and Jesslyn offer more flexible terms and work directly with you to accommodate unexpected changes.
Why North Carolina Cottages is the Perfect Stay at Carolina Beach
North Carolina Cottages is more than just a place to stay — it’s a family-run business built on a love for the Carolina Beach community. Here’s what sets it apart:
🌊 Prime Location
Just steps from the sand, North Carolina Cottages puts you close to the beach, the Boardwalk, and local restaurants.
🏡 Comfortable, Well-Equipped Cottages
Each cottage is designed with comfort and convenience in mind — great kitchens, cozy living areas, and private outdoor spaces.
🎯 Locally Owned and Operated
Michael and Jesslyn have lived in the greater Wilmington and Carolina Beach area for over 26 years. Their local knowledge means they can offer tips and advice you won’t find elsewhere.
🐾 Pet-Friendly Options
Planning to bring your furry friend? North Carolina Cottages offers pet-friendly options!
How to Book Direct and Start Saving
Booking direct with Michael and Jesslyn at North Carolina Cottages is easy:
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Visit Our Official Website – www.nccottages.com.
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Browse Listings – Check out our available cottages, detailed descriptions, and up-to-date availability.
- Send us a Message for a 10% Off Coupon Code – You’ve earned it!
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Send Your Request Directly to Michael & Jesslyn – Complete a booking request after selecting dates and confirming reservation information.
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Confirm Your Reservation – Complete your booking directly through the website to lock in the best rate and exclusive perks.
Real Savings, Real Hospitality
When you book directly with Michael and Jesslyn at North Carolina Cottages, you’re not just saving money — you’re choosing a better vacation experience. Avoid the fees, enjoy a free early check-in, and experience the personal touch that comes from staying with local hosts who care about your stay.
Ready to plan your Carolina Beach escape? Book direct today and start saving!
