Airbnb’s Policies Are Changing. Here’s Why Booking Direct Still Makes a Difference.

The same beautiful Maine home. Your favorite local team. A closer connection to your vacation from the very beginning.

Planning a vacation should be exciting. Choosing your beach, finding a home everyone loves, and deciding where that first lobster roll is coming from? Those are the fun parts.

Understanding booking fees and comparing reservation policies can take a little more work.

With Airbnb updating its service fee structure, we want to explain what those changes mean—and why booking directly with Salt & Shine is worth considering for your next coastal Maine getaway.

What’s changing with Airbnb’s fees?

Airbnb is transitioning home hosts to a single service fee structure. Under this model, the fee is deducted from the host’s payout rather than divided between the host and guest. Most hosts on the single fee structure pay 15.5%, though exceptions apply.

For travelers, the important detail is this: a reservation without a separate Airbnb guest service fee still carries a platform cost.

Airbnb itself explains that hosts may need to adjust their prices to maintain the same payout after the change. That means the cost of using the platform can be reflected in the advertised rate rather than appearing as a separate guest fee.

The best way to understand the difference? Compare the complete reservation total for the same home, dates, and number of guests.

Why booking direct can offer better value

When you reserve through SaltandShineRentals.com, your reservation is made directly with the local company managing your home, without an Airbnb service fee attached to the transaction.

That creates an opportunity for better value. The actual difference depends on the property, dates, promotions, and applicable charges, so we always encourage comparing the final total.

Direct reservations still include the taxes and property-related fees shown during checkout. What you gain is the opportunity to book without the additional cost associated with the Airbnb marketplace.

And if that leaves a little more room in your vacation budget for dinner out, a special experience, or another round of ice cream? We’re all for it.

You’re booking with the people who know the home

Have a question about the bedroom layout? Wondering which beach makes the most sense with little ones? Trying to find a home that works for grandparents, cousins, and everyone’s different vacation priorities?

That’s where our team comes in.

At Salt & Shine, we help you think through the details that matter to your stay. We know that “close to the beach” can mean something very different when you’re carrying three beach chairs, a cooler, and a tired toddler.

Booking directly gives you a connection with the people managing your vacation home from your first question onward.

Clear expectations before you arrive

Price matters. So do the terms attached to your reservation.

Cancellation policies, payment schedules, pet approvals, and occupancy limits deserve a careful look wherever you book. Different booking channels can have different terms, even for the same property.

Our direct reservations follow the rental agreement and reservation details presented during checkout, including our disclosed Firm 60 cancellation policy. We encourage you to review those details and reach out with questions before confirming your stay.

We want you to feel comfortable with both the home you’ve chosen and the commitment you’re making.

The Salt & Shine experience starts with our team

Whether you originally discover one of our homes on Airbnb or through our own website, we’re happy you found us. Our guests receive the care and local support that make Salt & Shine special, wherever their reservation begins.

Booking direct lets that relationship begin with us.

We can help you choose a home, share local favorites, and explore those extra touches that make a trip feel personal—from a private chef experience to recommendations for an afternoon along the coast.

Your next Maine escape starts here

As booking platforms evolve, we’ll keep focusing on what we love: beautiful homes, thoughtful hospitality, and helping you feel welcome here in Maine.

Before reserving your next stay, explore our website, compare the complete price and terms, and get to know the team who will be welcoming you.

Find your Maine getaway and book directly with Salt & Shine.

Locally rooted. Coastally inspired. Ready to welcome you.