If there is anything I have learned in life it is to do your research when buying something and to read reviews. How many times have I been less than enamored with something that I have purchased simply because I didn’t bother to read the reviews?

Now I know that there are a lot of disgruntled people out there. There are the complainers who will never be satisfied with anything that they buy.

There are the nitpickers who have to make a comment on every single flaw in the item, real or imagined.

There are the factual critics who list all of the facts related to their purchase and dissatisfaction.

The list goes on and on. You know where you fall on the spectrum. I tend to try to not leave negative reviews of things but almost always leave positive feedback . Especially if there is a real live person involved.

I have been doing some research on finding a place for the Brown siblings to rent later this year. It is always a challenge to find a place that fits in our budget and will accommodate our needs but we usually manage to do it. After all, the real important thing is to simply be together.

As I was putting together a list today I was very glad that I read the review of a place on VRBO that I had considered putting on the list. After reading the following review I decided that it just was not going to work at any price. I think you will understand why after you read the review.

Cons: major issue with front porch, needs to be torn off or reconstructed. Main entrance cluttered and messy, toys paint cans and garden debris everywhere. Poor lighting in main living area. Older home with charm but could use some easy updates. Carpets stained upstairs, blinds dirty and broken, window ac units dirty and not in all the bedrooms. Yard around the house and back was nothing too grand. Clutter around and looked very messy. Owner responded to messages quick but did not deliver on requests. Oven door was missing and incredibly dangerous for a toddler and infant. We were not warned of this prior to visit. Beds were comfortable but bedding/ pillows were limited. Minimal essentials in the kitchen.

It pays to read the reviews. Have you bought something recently (or rented someplace) where you wish you would have read the reviews a little bit closer? Tell me about it in the comments and remember to Comment for a Cause – Asheville Cat Weirdos Emergency Vet Fund.