Geesh Wendy a little rough on Vacation Buddy don't you think? I don't think anything in his email would be considered condescending. Yes he didn't point you to links and resources that might help you but no need to rail on him.
Here's an option that might help but he is right that you might have a hard time finding a "hotel" in the area for 50 bucks. Try a "hostel"
http://www.venicebeachcotel.com/reservations.html $22-70