VRBO, short for Vacation Rental By Owner, is an online marketplace specializing in vacation rentals. Established in 1995, it offers over 2 million properties in 190 countries worldwide. Some property owners use a property manager to handle their rentals, offering guests a variety of accommodation options.
The platform was acquired by HomeAway and later by Expedia Group for $3.9 billion, expanding its services and enhancing the overall booking experience. With a focus on entire homes without shared spaces, VRBO aims to provide travelers with privacy and the comforts of home during their vacations.
Booking on VRBO involves setting up an account, browsing listings using filters, and choosing from two booking methods: Instant Booking Request or 24-hour Confirmation. Guests need to provide arrival and departure dates, number of guests, and pet information. Additionally, the platform offers a seamless check-in process.
Compared to Airbnb, VRBO provides a unique experience for guests and hosts with differences in booking processes, security deposit fees, service fees, and cleaning fees. Both platforms offer various advantages and cater to different preferences.
For hosts, VRBO offers two fee models for listing properties, annual fee, and pay-per-booking fee. Guests pay a service fee that is a portion of the reservation amount, excluding taxes and other fees. VRBO also provides a book with confidence guarantee, ensuring a secure booking experience for both parties.
Cancellation policies vary depending on the property, with details listed on the individual listings. Hosts need to set minimum stay requirements, links, nightly rates, and additional fees when listing properties on VRBO.
To enhance visibility on VRBO, hosts can focus on high-quality photos, detailed descriptions, responsive communication, competitive pricing, and regular calendar updates. Additionally, the platform can be leveraged for business travel accommodations, seasonal pricing adjustments, minimizing vacancies, and maximizing earnings.
Reviews play a crucial role on VRBO, influencing guests’ decisions. Hosts are encouraged to provide exceptional service, follow up after checkout, and respond constructively to negative reviews. With a focus on creating memorable experiences, hosts can attract more positive feedback from guests.
In comparison to Airbnb, VRBO offers unique benefits for both hosts and travelers. With a user-friendly platform, excellent customer service, and streamlined booking process, VRBO stands out in the vacation rental market. Additionally, HomeAway has been fully integrated into VRBO, offering an expanded inventory and unified platform for guests and hosts.