VRBO is an online marketplace specializing in various rentals, with vacation rental properties available since 1995. You can find these properties in 190 different countries, totaling over 2 million listings.
VRBO stands for “Vacation Rental By Owner.” Some property owners use property managers to oversee their rentals, while others manage them directly. VRBO focuses on providing entire homes without shared spaces, unlike platforms like Airbnb, which may offer shared accommodations.
Founded in 1995, VRBO was acquired by HomeAway in 2006 and later by Expedia Group in 2015 for $3.9 billion. This expansion has enabled VRBO to offer over 2 million properties across 190 countries, enhancing its services for both travelers and property owners.
**How Does Booking on VRBO Work?**
1. **Account Set-Up:** Create an account with your email address and name, and optionally add a photo and bio.
2. **Browse Listings:** Use filters to sort listings based on destination, number of guests, and preferred dates.
3. **Booking Methods:** Choose between Instant Booking, which confirms immediately, and 24-hour Confirmation, where the owner has 24 hours to accept or decline your request. You’ll need to specify arrival and departure dates, number of guests, and whether you’re bringing pets.
**Difference Between VRBO and Airbnb**
Both VRBO and Airbnb are leading platforms in the vacation rental industry, each with unique features. Both require users to send booking requests, though Airbnb offers an instant book option. Hosts on both sites can charge a security deposit fee, but VRBO showcases more of these deposits. Service fees are similar on both platforms, typically around 20% of the base rate. Cleaning fees are also charged on both platforms, but VRBO tends to be cheaper in this regard. VRBO also shows the total reservation cost excluding taxes upfront.
**Pricing on VRBO**
When booking a property on VRBO, you can use American Express, MasterCard, and Visa. Some hosts may require full payment upfront. VRBO is considered safe, with a dedicated page for natural disasters and a contact page for concerns. When listing a property, you need to specify minimum stay requirements, links, nightly rates, and any additional fees.
**Service Fees**
VRBO offers two fee models for hosts: an annual subscription rate of $499 or a pay-per-booking fee. The guest service fee is a portion of the total reservation amount, excluding taxes and refundable fees. Guests can book with confidence, backed by VRBO’s guarantee, which covers the entire transaction.
**Cancellation Policy**
Cancellation policies vary by property and are listed on the property’s page. Cancellations generally need to be made by 11:59 pm in the listing’s time zone, and the refund policy may depend on the total payable amount.
**Listing a Property on VRBO**
To list a property, review local laws and other short-term rental properties’ rates, upload at least six photos, verify your contact and bank information, and have your submission reviewed.
**Enhancing Your VRBO Listing**
1. **High-Quality Photos:** Invest in professional photography.
2. **Detailed Descriptions:** Thoroughly describe your property, amenities, and nearby attractions.
3. **Responsive Host:** Answer inquiries promptly.
4. **Competitive Pricing:** Research and set competitive rates.
5. **Update Your Calendar:** Keep availability up to date to prevent double bookings.
**Leveraging VRBO for Business Travel**
VRBO is also suitable for business travelers, offering amenities like high-speed internet and workspaces. Flexible check-in/check-out times and discounts for extended stays can attract business travelers.
**Maximizing Earnings**
1. **Seasonal Pricing:** Adjust prices based on demand.
2. **Minimize Vacancies:** Offer last-minute discounts.
3. **Optimize Your Listing:** Regularly update content and photos.
**Understanding VRBO’s Review System**
Encourage guests to leave reviews by providing exceptional service and following up after checkout. Respond constructively to negative reviews.
**VRBO vs. Airbnb for Hosts and Travelers**
Hosts may prefer VRBO for its search filter capabilities and fee options. For travelers, VRBO is noted for good customer service, while Airbnb has faced more complaints, despite offering a Resolution Center. VRBO offers a longer period for reviews—one year compared to Airbnb’s two weeks.
**HomeAway and VRBO**
Since 2020, HomeAway has been fully integrated into VRBO, unifying the vacation rental experience under a single brand. This integration has expanded VRBO’s inventory and streamlined the platform for both guests and hosts.
