We just used Airbnb in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne. All were good experiences. Each was a different type of property and the interaction with the hosts were each different. I only considered places that had recommendations. The place where we had a unit to ourselves had a deposit, but it never hit the credit card, I think they just do like hotels and put a hold on your credit limit. Everything was as advertised and the hosts were all extremely helpful and colorful as well, in their own way. It is the only way to travel for me. On my upcoming trip to SFO I would have used it except I need to burn some points. I liked Airbnb so much, I put my place in there, so if any of you want to stay 7 miles on the west side of DFW, look at my place, http://www.airbnb.com/rooms/186705. Although, I must say, I have not hosted anyone yet. If you sign up, feel free to use me as a referrer if you don't already have one, I think there is a financial advantage to both of us.