I can’t speak for other owners, but I rented out a few of my Desert Springs units with Finding Meili without an issue. Obviously, any platform takes time to build renter awareness, but if owners don’t start listing on alternatives, nothing changes. Redweek didn’t start out as a giant either—it grew because owners listed and renters followed. If an option offers lower fees and a better process, it makes sense to at least give it a shot rather than just accepting ever-increasing costs IMO.
Marriott Facebook groups have tons of owners advertising their Redweek listings.
If DIY owners want to save, they could start posting their $16 listing with FindingMeili instead and letting guests know that way—why advertise a more expensive platform when they could direct guests to a cheaper one?
From what I’ve seen, some brokers and owners have used Finding Meili’s 'Meili Approved' option, which lets guests pay by credit card. I’m guessing that’s how some owners are renting their units. I haven’t personally used that feature, but I could see how it might help if renters prefer a more traditional booking setup.
At the end of the day, if owners want a stronger renter base somewhere new, it’s only going to happen if people actually use it. That’s how any platform grows.
Personally, I’d rather use a platform that doesn’t nickel-and-dime me at every chance they get. The whole point of renting out my deeded weeks is to help with maintenance fees if I can’t use them—not to get hit with fee after fee after fee…