There was a time, in my 20's, that I would drive out somewhere and 'just figure it out' once I got there. Even for work functions or conferences.
Then AirBnB became a thing, and I was even more caution to the wind, because I can book ahead of time, but it's still a surprise, sort of! Best of both worlds!
Now, though, not that far out of my 20's, I'm with you. I'll pay a premium to know that I'm getting something that is agreed to by both parties, with no surprises.