book direct instead of on Airbnb, Vrbo, or Booking

Why Booking Direct Just Hits Different: 3 Big Wins vs. Airbnb, Vrbo & Booking (dot-com)

April 09, 20252 min read

✨ Why Booking Direct Just Hits Different: 3 Big Wins vs. Airbnb, Vrbo & Booking (dot-com)

Since 2017, we’ve proudly hosted guests through platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com—and we’re grateful for all the wonderful connections made there. But here’s the truth: when you book directly with us at Eastern Wake Extended Stays by Red Carpet Furnished Homes, something magical happens. You get more value, more clarity, and a more human connection.

Let’s break it down, shall we?


💰 1. You Save Real Money

Those big platforms? They take a cut. Sometimes a big one.

  • Most third-party platforms add service fees—anywhere from 10% to 18%—to your total cost.

  • Some also limit flexibility when it comes to deposits, extra nights, or local recommendations.

  • When you book direct, we pass those savings straight to you. No mystery fees, no upcharges, no surprises.

✨ Direct Booking Perk:

You get the same house, the same great host, and all the same amenities—just for less.


🤝 2. You Establish a Real Connection With Your Host

When you book through a third-party site, communication can feel... filtered.

  • We LOVE hearing your story—why you're visiting, how long you’ll be here, if you’re bringing a pup (we’re pet-friendly!).

  • Direct bookings allow for quicker responses, better personalization, and way more flexibility.

  • We can offer early check-in, late check-out, longer stays, and other perks that just aren’t possible when there’s a platform in the middle.

✨ Direct Booking Perk:

We're just a text or call away—with no robots, delays, or canned messages in between.


🛏 3. You Get the Full Eastern Wake Experience

When you book through us directly, you’re booking with a team that’s local, responsive, and obsessed with comfort.

  • Need restaurant recommendations? A local park for the kids? Help with relocation logistics? We live here. We get it.

  • Whether it’s a 30, 60, or 90+ day stay, we tailor your experience to you.

  • Plus, we share our best kept local secrets and custom tips that don’t show up in generic platform messages.

✨ Direct Booking Perk:

You’re not just a “reservation ID”—you’re our guest, and we roll out the red carpet.


Bonus Perks of Booking Direct:

✅ Lower rates and zero third-party fees
Custom payment plans for longer stays
Real answers from real people
✅ Full transparency on policies and expectations
✅ Priority placement if you want to extend your stay


✨ Bottom Line: Booking Direct Just Feels Better

Whether you're a travel nurse, in town for work, relocating to the area, or just need a change of pace, direct booking helps us serve you better.

We’ve been hosting since 2017—on every major platform you can name—but the best stays always start with a real connection.

Ready to book your home away from home?
Let’s skip the middleman. Send us a message, grab a quote, and we’ll make your next stay in Wendell or Knightdale the smoothest one yet.

→ Book direct today and stay smarter with Eastern Wake Extended Stays.

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