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Can Travel Agents Book Vrbo?

Are you wondering if travel agents can book Vrbo properties for your next vacation? The answer is yes! In fact, using a travel agent to book your Vrbo rental can have many benefits.

Travel agents are experienced in planning vacations and can provide valuable insights into finding the perfect Vrbo property that meets your needs and budget. With so many options available on Vrbo, it can be overwhelming to navigate the booking process on your own.

Travel agents have access to exclusive listings and can help you find hidden gems that may not be available online. Additionally, they can assist with comparing prices and amenities across multiple properties to ensure you get the best deal possible.

But before you dive into booking a Vrbo property through a travel agent, it’s important to understand how the process works and what to expect. Can Travel Agents Book Vrbo?

Table of Contents

The Benefits of Using a Travel Agent for Vacation Planning

Using a travel agent for vacation planning can provide you with numerous benefits that make your trip more enjoyable and stress-free.

One of the most significant advantages of working with a travel agent is their ability to help you plan last minute trips. When you’re in a rush to book a vacation, it can be challenging to find the best deals on flights, hotels, and activities.

A travel agent has access to exclusive discounts and promotions that aren’t available online or through other channels. They can also help you navigate the complexities of booking last-minute travel, such as finding availability and coordinating transportation.

Another benefit of using a travel agent is their expertise in helping you save money on your vacation. Travel agents have extensive knowledge about how to get the best value for your money when it comes to flights, accommodations, tours, and activities.

They can recommend cost-saving strategies such as booking off-season or bundling services together for discounts. Additionally, they can provide insider tips on how to avoid hidden fees or unexpected charges that may arise during your trip planning process.

With their guidance, you’ll be able to enjoy all the perks of traveling without breaking the bank.

Understanding the Vrbo Booking Process

To complete a booking on Vrbo, you must first select your desired dates and location.

From there, you will be presented with a list of available vacation rentals to choose from.

One thing to keep in mind when using Vrbo is the fees associated with booking. Unlike some other vacation rental platforms, Vrbo charges both guests and hosts various fees for their services.

It’s important to understand these fees before making a booking on Vrbo so that you are aware of the total cost upfront.

Additionally, many people compare Vrbo and Airbnb for vacation rentals as they are two of the most popular platforms available.

While both offer similar services, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of user experience and pricing.

How Travel Agents Can Access Vrbo Listings

You can easily access listings on Vrbo by logging into your account and browsing through available vacation rentals. However, as a travel agent, you have additional resources and tools to make the booking process smoother for your clients.

One of the benefits of travel agent support is that you can provide personalized recommendations based on your clients’ preferences and needs. You can also negotiate better deals and rates with property owners or managers, which may not be possible when booking directly on Vrbo.

By accessing Vrbo listings through your travel agency’s platform or partner program, you can streamline the booking process and ensure a hassle-free experience for both yourself and your clients.

Finding a Travel Agent with Vrbo Expertise

If you want a hassle-free vacation rental experience with personalized recommendations and better deals, finding a travel agent who specializes in Vrbo could be the solution. Here are some tips for finding specialized travel agents:

• Check online directories: Some websites specialize in listing travel agents based on their expertise, such as Virtuoso or Travel Leaders.
• Ask around: Your friends or family may have worked with a travel agent who has experience booking Vrbo properties.
• Look for reviews: Read online reviews to find out which travel agents have successfully booked Vrbo properties for their clients.
• Compare fees: Don’t forget to compare the fees charged by different travel agents before making a decision.

By finding a travel agent who is knowledgeable about Vrbo, you can save time and money while getting personalized recommendations that suit your needs. Just make sure to do your research beforehand and choose an agent whose services fit within your budget.

The Pros and Cons of Using a Travel Agent for Vrbo Bookings

Imagine having someone who can handle all the nitty-gritty details of your vacation rental while you sit back and relax, but there are both advantages and disadvantages to using a travel agent for Vrbo bookings.

One advantage is that travel agents have expertise in finding the best deals and packages for your trip. They can help you save time by doing the research for you, and they may even have access to exclusive discounts not available to the general public.

However, there are also drawbacks to relying on a travel agent for Vrbo bookings. For one, their services may come with additional fees or commissions that could increase the overall cost of your rental. Additionally, booking directly through Vrbo allows you to communicate directly with the property owner or manager, which can be helpful if you have specific questions or requests regarding your stay.

Ultimately, while travel agents play an important role in the industry as a whole, it’s up to each individual traveler to decide whether their assistance is worth it when booking a vacation rental through Vrbo.

Tips for Working with a Travel Agent to Book Vrbo Properties

Picture yourself sitting back with a cold drink in hand while your vacation rental details are handled by an expert who knows the best tips for securing the perfect Vrbo property through a travel agent. Working with a travel agent to book your Vrbo properties can be a hassle-free experience, and here are some tips to help you get started:

• Communicate your needs clearly: Travel agents have access to many Vrbo properties, but it’s important that you communicate what you want so they can match you with the perfect one.
• Enjoy added perks: Using a travel agent might come at an extra cost, but it offers numerous benefits such as exclusive deals and upgrades, which make the whole experience even more enjoyable.
• Save time: With their expertise, travel agents can quickly filter out options that don’t meet your criteria, hence saving you time and effort searching for the perfect rental.
• Get insider information: Travel agents have relationships and knowledge of the local area, which means they can offer valuable insight on things like popular restaurants or attractions.

Overall, travelers benefit from using travel agents to book Vrbo properties because they take care of all the details, making sure everything is taken care of before arrival.

On the other hand, property owners also benefit because working with trusted professionals ensures their listing gets maximum exposure and attracts quality guests.

Ensuring the Safety and Security of Your Vrbo Rental

Ensuring the safety and security of your Vrbo rental is crucial for a worry-free vacation experience. As a renter, you want to have peace of mind that you and your traveling companions will be safe throughout your stay.

It’s important to communicate with the property owner or manager about any concerns you may have regarding safety features such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and emergency exits.

Another aspect of ensuring guest satisfaction and safety is being prepared to handle emergencies. Before booking your Vrbo rental, make sure that there are clear instructions on what to do in case of an emergency such as a power outage or natural disaster.

Additionally, familiarize yourself with the location of medical facilities and emergency services in case they are needed during your stay. By taking these precautions and being aware of potential risks, you can enjoy a worry-free vacation experience in your Vrbo rental.

By checking for these safety features before booking your Vrbo rental, you can ensure that you will have a safe and comfortable stay. Remember to also ask about emergency procedures so that you are prepared in case anything unexpected happens during your vacation.

Payment and Cancellation Policies for Vrbo Bookings through Travel Agents

Don’t stress over payment and cancellation policies when booking your Vrbo rental through a travel agent – they’re designed to make the process easy and enjoyable for you! Here are a few things you should know about Vrbo payment policies and cancellation policies when booking through a travel agent:

• Payment is typically required upfront, but some agents may offer payment plans or flexible options.
• Cancellation policies vary depending on the property owner’s rules, but most will allow for full refunds if cancelled within a certain timeframe.
• Your travel agent can help you navigate any issues or disputes with payments or cancellations.
• Remember to read the fine print and ask questions so that you fully understand the terms before making any commitments.

By working with a travel agent, you can rest assured that someone is looking out for your best interests and helping to ensure a smooth vacation experience. So don’t hesitate to reach out and let them assist you in booking your dream Vrbo rental!

How to Compare Vrbo Listings and Prices with a Travel Agent’s Help

Now that you know the payment and cancellation policies for Vrbo bookings through travel agents, let’s move on to how a travel agent can help you compare options and prices on Vrbo.

It’s always good to have a second opinion, especially when it comes to booking accommodations for your upcoming trip. A travel agent can give you an objective view of the listings available on Vrbo and help you make an informed decision.

Travel agents have access to tools that allow them to search for properties based on your specific needs and budget. They can also negotiate with property owners or managers to secure better rates or added perks.

Keep in mind that most travel agents charge a commission for their services, but this fee is often worth it if they are able to save you money or time during the booking process. So, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted travel agent who can help you find the perfect Vrbo rental for your next vacation.

Do Travel Agents Receive Commission for Booking Vrbo Rentals?

Travel agents payment methods may vary, but when it comes to booking Vrbo rentals, they do receive a commission. Vrbo has a partnership program in place where travel agents can earn a percentage of the booking cost as their commission. This incentive encourages travel agents to promote and book Vrbo rentals for their clients, ensuring a seamless and rewarding experience.

Can Travel Agents Help Me Book a Hotel in Dead Sea, Jordan?

Travel agents can definitely assist you in booking hotels in the Dead Sea, Jordan. Whether you’re looking for luxurious resorts or budget-friendly accommodations, dead sea hotels jordan , travel agents have access to a wide range of options that cater to different preferences and budgets. With their expertise, they can help you find the perfect hotel to make your stay in the Dead Sea memorable and enjoyable.

Final Thoughts on Booking Vrbo Properties with a Travel Agent

If you want a stress-free and well-planned vacation, it’s advisable to seek the help of an experienced travel professional when looking for the best Vrbo properties that fit your preferences and budget.

While booking directly with VRBO has its benefits, such as being able to communicate directly with the property owner and potentially avoiding booking fees, using a travel agent can still be advantageous. Travel agents have connections and relationships with VRBO owners that allow them to negotiate rates and secure better deals on your behalf.

Additionally, if any issues arise during your stay, your travel agent can act as a mediator between you and the property owner to resolve any issues quickly and effectively. So even though you may think booking directly with VRBO is the easiest route, using a travel agent can save you money and provide peace of mind throughout your entire vacation experience.

So, should you use a travel agent to book your next Vrbo rental? The answer ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs.

If you value the convenience, expertise, and personalized service that a travel agent can offer, then it may be worth considering. Plus, with the added benefit of being able to compare Vrbo listings and prices with their help, you may end up saving both time and money.

However, if you prefer to have more control over the booking process or want to avoid additional fees associated with using a travel agent, then booking directly through Vrbo may be the better option for you.

Regardless of which route you choose, make sure to read the fine print carefully and prioritize safety and security when making any online vacation rental bookings.

Kevin Sullivan is a passionate globetrotter, food enthusiast, and leisure advocate. With an insatiable curiosity for the world, Kevin has embarked on countless adventures, immersing himself in diverse cultures, cuisines, and leisure activities along the way. With a discerning palate and a love for culinary delights, he has sampled delectable dishes from street food stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants, always seeking the most unforgettable flavors. Through his engaging storytelling and expert insights, Kevin aims to inspire readers to embark on their own transformative journeys, indulge in tantalizing cuisines, and find solace in the art of leisure.

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Travel Agents Commissionable Vacation Rentals With VillaDirect

Making the best return for the effort of your team

Your agency can enjoy up to 10% commission and receive free familiarization trips, depending on the number of bookings placed each year through villadirect. in addition, travel agents commissionable vacation rentals benefits include a personal local concierge service for your clients., you’ll also have your own named reservations liaison agent to contact in our team with questions you might have about any bookings or payments. this puts you in control the income you receive from villadirect. once you achieve a new commission threshold, you stay there for a full calendar year, regardless of the number of bookings you bring in. all commission rates reset on the 1st anniversary of the agency registration, and each year thereafter., # of bookings/calendar year, commission % paid, 10% + fam trip.

    https://www.villadirect.com/vacation-travel-agents/travel-agency-discounts/  

Please note:    Once achieved, the rate of travel agent commissions are not retroactive. They cannot be applied to previous bookings, even when the arrival date of such bookings is after the attainment of the most recent commission level. Agents must be registered with VillaDirect at the time of placing a booking to receive a commission. We regret that we are unable to retroactively apply commissions to bookings made by an agent that has not registered. Commissions are not paid on bookings where agent’s guest has received a discount.

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Booking Vacation Rentals Through Vrbo: A Comprehensive Guide for Travel Agents

By Happy Sharer

Introduction

In today’s digital world, travel agents are increasingly turning to online platforms to expand their reach and increase revenue opportunities. One of the most popular platforms for booking vacation rentals is Vrbo. But what exactly is Vrbo, and how can travel agents use it to enhance their business? In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of booking vacation rentals through Vrbo, including understanding the different rental options, exploring additional services offered by Vrbo, utilizing technology to streamline the booking process, familiarizing yourself with the fees and policies associated with Vrbo, working with local property managers, and leveraging online advertising platforms to increase revenue.

How Travel Agents Can Utilize Vrbo to Enhance Their Business

Vrbo is an online marketplace that connects travelers with vacation rental properties around the world. It offers a variety of rental options ranging from luxury villas to budget apartments and everything in between. Travel agents can utilize Vrbo to expand their reach and visibility, as well as increase their revenue opportunities.

Understanding the Different Rental Options

When it comes to booking vacation rentals through Vrbo, there are a number of different rental options available. From luxury villas to budget apartments, Vrbo has something for everyone. Travel agents should take the time to explore the different rental options and identify which ones are best suited for their clients. Additionally, they should be aware of any special offers or discounts that may be available.

Exploring Additional Services Offered by Vrbo

In addition to offering a variety of rental options, Vrbo also offers a range of additional services that travel agents can take advantage of. These include things like concierge services, airport transfers, and even on-site amenities such as pools and spas. By taking the time to explore these services, travel agents can ensure that their clients have the best possible experience when booking a vacation rental through Vrbo.

Utilizing Technology to Streamline the Booking Process

Vrbo has made it easier than ever for travel agents to book vacation rentals. With its user-friendly interface and intuitive search capabilities, travel agents can quickly find the perfect rental property for their clients. Additionally, Vrbo’s automated payment system and secure payment processing make it easy to complete the booking process without any hassle.

What Travel Agents Should Know About Booking Vacation Rentals Through Vrbo

When booking vacation rentals through Vrbo, there are a few key things that travel agents should keep in mind. First, they should familiarize themselves with the booking process and understand the fees and policies associated with Vrbo. Additionally, they should research local property managers and establish strong relationships with them in order to get the best deals on vacation rentals.

The Benefits of Using Vrbo for Travel Agents

Using Vrbo for booking vacation rentals offers a number of benefits for travel agents. For starters, it can provide increased revenue opportunities, as the platform allows agents to set their own rates and commission structures. Additionally, Vrbo gives agents greater control over their business, allowing them to manage their listings and communicate directly with property managers. Finally, Vrbo offers travel agents the chance to expand their reach and visibility, as the platform is used by millions of travelers worldwide.

How Travel Agents Can Leverage Vrbo to Increase Revenue

In order to maximize revenue opportunities with Vrbo, travel agents should create a strategic marketing plan and leverage online advertising platforms. They should also identify the best properties to market, as well as establish strong relationships with local property managers. By taking the time to create a comprehensive strategy, travel agents can ensure that they’re getting the most out of Vrbo.

Tips and Tricks for Travel Agents to Get the Most Out of Vrbo

Finally, there are a few tips and tricks that travel agents should keep in mind when using Vrbo. They should always research the area before booking, as this will help them identify the best properties to market. Additionally, they should be proactive with communication, as this will ensure that all parties involved in the booking process are kept informed. Finally, they should take the time to familiarize themselves with the fees and policies associated with Vrbo, as this will help them avoid any potential issues down the line.

A Comprehensive Guide for Travel Agents on Booking Vacation Rentals Through Vrbo

Booking vacation rentals through Vrbo can be a great way for travel agents to expand their reach and increase their revenue opportunities. However, there are a few key things that travel agents should know before getting started. This comprehensive guide provides an overview of the different rental options, additional services, fees and policies associated with Vrbo, as well as tips and tricks to maximize revenue opportunities.

Vrbo is a great platform for travel agents looking to book vacation rentals. With its user-friendly interface and range of additional services, Vrbo makes it easy for agents to find the perfect rental property for their clients. Additionally, Vrbo offers travel agents the chance to expand their reach and visibility, as well as capitalize on increased revenue opportunities. By taking the time to familiarize themselves with the booking process, fees and policies associated with Vrbo, and leveraging online advertising platforms, travel agents can ensure that they’re getting the most out of Vrbo.

(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)

Hi, I'm Happy Sharer and I love sharing interesting and useful knowledge with others. I have a passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple way.

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Vrbo travel agent commission.

VRBO (Vacation Rentals By Owner) is a popular online platform for homeowners to list their vacation properties for rent. VRBO offers a commission program for travel agents who book vacation rentals through their platform.

The VRBO travel agent commission program allows agents to earn a commission on the total cost of the rental when a client books through VRBO. This commission can range from 5% to 15% depending on the total booking price.

How Does VRBO Travel Agent Commission Work?

First, travel agents must sign up for the VRBO travel agent commission program. Once approved, they can start booking vacation rentals for their clients through VRBO.

When a client books a rental through VRBO using the travel agent’s unique VRBO account, the agent earns a commission on the total cost of the rental. This commission is paid out once the client has completed their stay.

Agents can keep track of their VRBO bookings and commissions through their VRBO account dashboard.

What are the Benefits of VRBO Travel Agent Commission?

One of the main benefits of VRBO travel agent commission is the potential to earn extra income. By booking vacation rentals through VRBO for their clients, agents can earn a commission on top of their regular fees.

Additionally, VRBO offers a wide variety of vacation rental properties to choose from, allowing agents to offer their clients unique and personalized vacation experiences.

The VRBO platform is also user-friendly and easy to use, making it a convenient option for travel agents and their clients.

FAQs about VRBO Travel Agent Commission

Overall, VRBO travel agent commission can be a great way for travel agents to earn extra income and offer their clients unique vacation experiences. By signing up for the VRBO commission program, agents can book vacation rentals through VRBO and earn a commission on the total cost of the rental. With a wide variety of rental properties and a user-friendly platform, VRBO can be a valuable tool for travel agents to grow their business and provide top-notch service to their clients.

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Table of Contents

What is Vrbo?

How does vrbo work, how to rent on vrbo, is vrbo safe, how to cancel a vrbo reservation, what to do if you have issues with a vrbo reservation, how to save money on vrbo, is vrbo better than airbnb, vrbo vacation rentals, recapped.

Whether you’re going on vacation, looking for medium-term apartment rental while you work and travel, or just simply prefer to stay in unique accommodations rather than hotels, you have options besides Airbnb. One of those choices is Vrbo, an online marketplace that connects homeowners who are renting out their place with people looking for vacation rentals.

Furthermore, Vrbo participates in One Key Rewards , a unified loyalty program allowing travelers to earn and redeem rewards across Vrbo, Expedia and Hotels.com. If you're considering renting a vacation rental on Vrbo, here's what you should know before you book.

Vrbo is short for Vacation Rentals by Owner, and it's a website that does exactly what it sounds like. Vrbo is an online vacation rental site where property owners can list their homes for rent, travelers can book them and Vrbo handles the transaction.

Vrbo properties range from massive cabins in the mountains ideal for a group ski trip to more conventional homes in the suburbs to unique dwellings, like Costa Rica's "Cockpit Cabana," where you actually sleep inside of an airplane.

The "Cockpit Cabana" Vrbo listing is a remodeled airplane located in Costa Rica that overlooks the ocean and has two queen beds inside. (Photo courtesy of Vrbo)

Vrbo launched in 1995 as an online vacation rental marketplace and was acquired by HomeAway in 2006. After travel giant Expedia Group acquired HomeAway in 2015, Vrbo fell under the Expedia umbrella. Then in 2020, the two brands — HomeAway and Vrbo — merged into a single Vrbo website.

In 2023, Vrbo, Expedia and Hotels.com joined together to create One Key, which is a loyalty program allowing members to earn and redeem rewards across all three platforms. Airbnb doesn’t have a rewards program , so although Vrbo is a smaller player, by joining One Key, it provides something to loyal travelers that Airbnb doesn’t.

» Learn more: The One Key travel rewards guide

Staying overnight in a vacation rental like a Vrbo can sometimes be cheaper than hotels (especially when traveling in groups), as you can often find multiroom properties that fit multiple people. In addition, the rentals commonly include amenities like washing machines and kitchens, allowing you to pack less and cook more. Sometimes Vrbo provides the best and only lodging available, especially if you're traveling to remote areas not served by hotels.

But renting on Vrbo isn't always as easy as booking a hotel. Unless the property is listed as "Instant Book," you'll have to submit a request to the owner to book it, adding one more bump in your trip planning. In addition, some properties have minimum stay requirements, and maximum stays sometimes pop up.

Throw in the fact that you're staying in a nonstandard property, and you should expect inconsistencies that you likely won't find when staying at hotels, whether it's the types of available amenities, the check-in process, or the condition of your rental.

If you're ready to rent on Vrbo, here's what you need to know to improve the odds of it being a smart money move .

In addition to offering a loyalty program, another key differentiator between Vrbo and other vacation rental platforms is that Vrbo only allows you to rent entire, private homes. Contrast that with competitors like Airbnb that allow shared spaces, and Vrbo rentals mean you'll never stay on a property while the owner (or other guests, for that matter) are also living there.

The available listings vary in quality and amenities, cancellation policies, and the number of guests allowed.

Vrbo's platform has about 2 million hosts worldwide (almost half of the 4 million hosts that Airbnb claims).

Set up an account on Vrbo

To get started on Vrbo, you'll need to create an online account, which entails simply entering a name and email address. From there, you're offered several optional pieces of information to hand over, including a short bio about yourself and your photo.

There's also the option to verify your identity. If you choose to, Vrbo asks you to provide your physical address and birth date. Vrbo then attempts to verify that info and — if successful — will flag your account as a verified guest.

Filling out those optional boxes is typically a wise move, as most rentals require you to request a reservation (and the host can choose to accept or reject your request). A verified account increases the odds that your booking request will be accepted.

By the way, hosts won't see all the identity information you provided. Instead, they'll only know that you're a verified guest — as well as receive some basic contact information, like your email and phone, so that they can get in touch with you about your trip.

Finding your rental

To find a Vrbo rental, use Vrbo's array of filters to narrow a search on the website after inputting your preferred dates, destination and the number of guests. Filters include the more standard options you'd expect, like the number of bedrooms, availability and price.

Use Vrbo's filters to find your perfect rental.

Vrbo also has robust filters that drill down on the minutiae of your dream vacation rental. You can filter by property type and it's not just limited to a house or apartment. Zany home types are included, such as castles, lodges and yachts. You can also sort by nearby activities (with options including skiing, fishing, theme parks and breweries) and whittle it down by property features such as pools, cribs or outdoor grills.

When you select a listing, you'll be able to see an assortment of photos, a detailed description of the property and reviews from past guests.

During your Vrbo selection process, base your decision on the property description and not just the photos, as photos might not capture the whole experience.

It's also wise to read recent reviews, as a beautifully crafted description accompanied by aesthetically pleasing photos doesn't necessarily translate to having a great experience. Likewise, a poorly photographed home could still be great. After all, you'd probably prefer that your host is an expert in hospitality, not photography.

Also, understand cancellation policies, as they can vary by property. For example, the strictest cancellation policies are completely nonrefundable, while more flexible policies offer a 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

If you have a question about a property, you can message the host directly from the property page. Once logged in, select the "Contact Host" link located on the right side of the listing details page, and fill out the form with your message. You can expect a response from the owner within one or two days. If you don't hear back, consider booking a different rental.

Vrbo Premier Hosts

You might also opt to filter your search results by Premier Hosts, who have a special badge displayed on their property listing pages to designate their status. Premier Hosts are reviewed quarterly by Vrbo and selected based on factors including low cancellation rates, high review scores and the number of bookings.

Booking and paying for your Vrbo

Once you've settled on the place you want to rent, you need to determine how to book it next. The steps generally fall into two categories: 24-Hour Confirmation or Instant Book.

24-Hour Confirmation: Submit a request to book, and the host has 24 hours to accept or decline.

Instant Book: Your booking can be confirmed without waiting for the host to accept.

For both options, you'll have to enter your arrival and departure dates, the number of adults and children in your group, and whether any pets are coming. You can also include optional rental notes for the host.

You can include a message for your host at checkout and see the full price (typically more than the advertised price given various taxes and fees).

On top of the booking rate, most properties also include additional fees such as cleaning, which the host sets. In addition, Vrbo also tacks on its service fee.

Some hosts also require that you leave a card on file, put down a refundable damage deposit or purchase property damage protection to cover any damages you may cause.

Vrbo always handles the transaction, and it accepts Visa, Mastercard or American Express.

Don't consent if the host messages you to pay separately. Hosts who request cash, check or money transfers could be scamming you.

The timeline for making payments can vary. Some properties require you to pay upfront in full, while others let you break it up into two or three smaller payments.

Even if your host requires full payment upfront, there's a way you can pay in installments because of Vrbo's partnership with Affirm , a point-of-sale loan company. Affirm allows you to book your vacation rental and pay it off over time, even past the dates of your stay. However, Affirm is only available to qualified customers and only on specific properties in the United States.

Checking in

The check-in process varies by Vrbo rental, but you can typically expect to access your property either through a lockbox with a key inside or through a door that opens by a code.

Three days ahead of your stay, Vrbo will send you an email with check-in information provided by the host, including how to access codes or keys to enter, the property address, cancellation policy and additional host contact information.

If you have a question ahead of or upon arrival, reach out to the host, as they (or one of their property managers) are likely to be nearby and can help you.

Checking out

The checkout and locking up process varies across Vrbos, much like checking in. Don't be surprised if your host has specific cleanup instructions or other requests; however, many will ask that you leave the house as is.

Most likely, your host will share details about your checkout process either before or upon arrival.

In theory, yes. Vrbo is a legitimate vacation rental service with safety precautions in place to mitigate risks. But ultimately, this is a business where strangers enter your home — and you enter a stranger's home — so issues can arise.

Safety measures between guests and hosts

Vrbo does not conduct background checks on guests. In contrast, competitor Airbnb does conduct background checks. Instead, Vrbo offers badges for people who may be more trustworthy.

As a guest, you can get a "Verified Identity" badge added to your account, earned by providing your address, birth date and other personal information, which Vrbo verifies. Hosts will more likely accept your request if you have one of those badges.

Meanwhile, hosts can receive a "Premier Host" designation. Although that won't necessarily dive into their criminal record, the Premier Hosts title is doled out by Vrbo (and reviewed quarterly) to hosts who have exemplified positive attributes, including low cancellation rates, high review scores and the number of bookings.

Listings can be filtered by Premier Hosts, which have a badge on the listing photo showing off their status.

Safety measures for money

Your payments are protected against fraud as long as you pay through Vrbo. That way, if your money ends up in the hands of someone other than the host, Vrbo will refund you. Don't agree to make a deal for cash outside the app.

Safety measures for natural disasters or travel advisories

If a natural disaster like a hurricane, earthquake, or tornado has impacted a trip you're currently on — or your destination has suddenly undergone a travel advisory — you can contact Vrbo through the contact button on its natural disaster page. If you haven't left yet, Vrbo recommends contacting the host first to discuss the next steps. Then, if there are still issues, contact Vrbo.

Vrbo's stance on surveillance devices

Vrbo allows surveillance devices in some capacity. In general, surveillance devices are never allowed inside homes, aside from smart devices (like Amazon Alexa) or baby monitors. But even in those instances, owners are required to disclose their locations to guests and give guests the option to deactivate them.

Outside the home, surveillance device usage can be more liberal. For example, security cameras and smart doorbells can be used for security reasons as long as their location and coverage are disclosed to guests. However, from there, rules around outdoor surveillance devices are relatively vague.

They include:

Areas where guests have a reasonable expectation of privacy (say, an outdoor shower), should not be under surveillance.

Reasonable measures should be taken to limit access to surveillance data.

Surveillance data should be deleted when no longer needed.

Vrbo is generally considered safe, but that doesn't mean risks are off the table. Safety issues can happen at any form of lodging. But since Vrbo doesn't scout out individual properties, some additional risks might not be as common at a standard hotel.

To cancel your Vrbo reservation, sign in to your account and go to the "My Trips" tab, then select "Change or cancel trip." From there, you'll be able to review your property's cancellation policy. If you are automatically eligible to cancel for a full refund, then you'll be able to select the "Cancel booking" button. Otherwise, select the "Request cancellation" button, submitting your request to the host to process.

Cancellation policies vary by property and host, but they'll be spelled out on the listings page so you can see them before you book and pay. For example, the most flexible Vrbo cancellation policies let you cancel up to 14 days before check-in for a full refund. Meanwhile, other listings are entirely nonrefundable.

If it turns out that your rental has serious issues (or if the host is entirely unresponsive), turn to what Vrbo calls its "Book with Confidence Guarantee." For no additional cost to you, Vrbo promises to help you if the owner unexpectedly cancels your reservation up to 30 days from your stay, if the property was materially misrepresented in the listing, or if it has serious health or safety issues.

If you need help, click the "Contact Us" button at the bottom of Vrbo's "Book with Confidence Guarantee" page.

Vrbo prices are set by hosts — not Vrbo itself — so most tricks for saving money on hotels won't necessarily apply. Still, here are five ways to save money on Vrbo rentals:

Some properties offer weekly or monthly discounts for longer stays.

1. Book a longer stay

Some Vrbo hosts offer discounts if you stay for longer chunks of time. Hosts can opt to provide weekly or monthly discounts at a rate determined by them. If the property you want to rent offers a discount and your stay is long enough to satisfy the requirements, the discount is automatically applied at checkout.

Sure, a more extended stay will typically net out to be more expensive than a shorter stay, but if you can condense what would otherwise be multiple trips into one longer trip, you'll save money. Plus, that enables you to save beyond just the Vrbo, but other trip costs, like airfare.

2. Redeem credit card travel statement credits for Vrbo stays

A few credit cards offer travel statement credits covering various travel expenses and typically include Vrbo rentals, including the Chase Sapphire Reserve® .

3. Sign up for One Key Rewards

Before booking a stay through Vrbo, make sure to sign up for the One Key loyalty program. One Key rewards can be earned and redeemed across Vrbo, Expedia and Hotels.com. You can also earn elite status with One Key, which can help you save even more money and get perks on your bookings on all three sites.

You earn 2% OneKeyCash for every $1 you spend on your Vrbo bookings and each night that you stay counts as one segment towards earning status.

One drawback of the earn rate is that it's based on the room cost only and doesn’t include host fees, service fees or taxes, which can amount to a significant component of the total cost of the stay.

One example is this four night stay, which costs $1,121. However, you will only earn the 2% rewards on $573, amounting to only $11.46 in OneKeyCash.

Considering that host fees, service fees and taxes comprise a significant component of the trip cost, the $11.46 actually represents a measly 1.02% return on your investment. Though this is a pretty weak earn rate, not all bookings have equivalent fees, so the percentage you earn may be closer to 2%.

4. Earn points by paying with a travel rewards credit card

Sure, this tip won't save you money upfront, but it'll earn you travel rewards to cover future trips: Pay for your Vrbo with a travel rewards credit card .

If you've got a travel credit card that offers bonus points on travel spending, then Vrbos typically fall under the travel umbrella and qualify you for an elevated earn rate. Read your own credit card's terms, as some issuers define travel differently, or might only give you bonus points for travel booked directly through their travel portals (in which case a Vrbo wouldn't qualify).

Premium travel credit cards can be particularly rewarding towards your travel spending, with some offering returns of around three to five cents per dollar spent back in rewards. For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® earns 3 points per $1 on all travel, and Vrbo falls into that category. If high annual fees aren't your jam, there are plenty of travel credit cards with no annual fee to pick from.

4. Earn United miles by connecting your accounts

Your Vrbo stays are an easy way to rack up United Airlines MileagePlus miles, which you can accumulate and redeem for free flights. You'll need to book through United's dedicated Vrbo webpage to qualify to earn points, and you'll also have to enter your MileagePlus membership number in the correct field.

When you do, you'll earn 3 MileagePlus award miles per $1 spent on the cost of the vacation rental after the completed stay, excluding taxes and fees.

So if you book a $1,000 stay, you will earn 3,000 miles. Since NerdWallet values United miles at 1.2 cents each, those 3,000 miles are worth $36. Although it's not a significant amount, connecting your accounts can be an easy way to accumulate some extra United miles with minimal effort.

5. Travel when no one wants to

Vrbo hosts can set different prices for different days — and they'll likely charge higher prices in line with demand. So, for example, a cabin near the ski lift base will probably cost more in winter, while the beachfront cottage will likely cost more in summer.

If you don't mind going to the beach on a cold winter day or riding the ski lift with no snow on the ground, then you might be rewarded financially. You can sometimes get the destination's best seasonal offerings coupled with lower prices by traveling during shoulder season .

The two vacation rental companies have a few key differences. Airbnb offers standalone homes, shared spaces and hotel rooms, while Vrbo only offers standalone accommodations. 

Though Airbnb has more properties, Vrbo has more robust search capabilities. When we compared the cost of vacation rentals between Airbnb and Vrbo, we found that bookings were priced similarly.

Want to know more about how these two companies stack up against each other? Check out our comparison guide here: Airbnb vs. Vrbo: which is better for travelers?

If you’re looking to rent a vacation home for your upcoming trip, Vrbo offers plenty of properties around the world to choose from. Once you make an account, you’ll be able to search for properties and book them through the platform.

Since Vrbo properties are people’s homes, the cancellation policies as well as the check-in/checkout process will differ from place to place so keep that in mind as you plan for your trip.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Citibank's application

1%-5% Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Also, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.

$200 Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

on Wells Fargo's website

2% Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases

$200 Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.

1x-3x Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Plus earn 1X points on other purchases.

20,000 Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.

A Comprehensive Guide to VRBO Pricing [2023]

January 4, 2023 | Hailey Friedman

Hosting vacation rental properties can be profitable. Vacation rental websites – like Vacation Rentals by Owner (Vrbo) – make it easy to get bookings. Vrbo is a great vacation site for vacationing families and larger groups. Its listings are full-space rentals, so there are no room rentals. 

But, how does Vrbo pricing work? Vrbo has different pricing and fee structures that are important to consider before listing your property. 

This article will review all the Vrbo fees for vacation rental owners, travelers, and more. Let’s review.

Vrbo Hosting Fees

Vrbo offers two pricing models; pay-per-booking fees or an annual subscription. Generally, the size of your business determines which pricing model is the most cost-efficient.

Pay-per-Booking Fee

The pay-per-booking model charges a commission and payment-processing fee per booking. The number of annual bookings and your rate determines how much you will pay the company.

The fees do not apply to Cancellation Protection or Property Damage Protection. But they do apply to all charges your guests must pay you, including: 

Cleaning fees

Extra guests

Refundable security deposits

Taxes and VATS 

A benefit of the pay-per-booking model is not having an upfront cost. You only pay Vrbo a percentage of what you earn.

The annual subscription fee covers unlimited bookings for the whole year. You must pay this fee upfront, no matter how much you earn in the upcoming year. 

A couple of the benefits of the annual subscription fee include: 

Not calculating percentages for each listing, although Vrbo does this for you automatically. 

Can be more cost-effective if you have high-value properties.

Vrbo offers a 14-day window for canceling annual subscriptions should you switch to the pay-per-booking model. 

The annual subscription fee is $499. The yearly subscription could be a cost-efficient payment model if you have a high-value property and plan to earn more than $6,250 annually.

Vrbo Commission Structure

If you plan to make less than $6,250 or more annually, you could save money with the pay-per-booking model. The pay-per-booking model has a commission and payment processing fee. 

The commission fee is five percent of the rental amount and any additional charges. This percentage may be higher if bookings originate from Vrbo’s expanded distribution partners. 

The payment-processing fee , or credit card processing fee, is three percent of the amount you receive in payments. But Vrbo reimburses the processing fee for damage deposits when you refund guests. 

If you use property management software integration, there is an additional fee and Vrbo also charges a five percent booking fee for reservations made through other Vrbo-owned websites. 

In December 2020, the company provided another option. Vrbo may enforce a 15% commission per booking if: 

You connect with Vrbo through a channel manager.

You have a commercial contract.

You are a property manager with multiple properties.

You don’t reside in the United States. 

However, the guests no longer have a service fee, which makes these rentals more desirable.

Vrbo Fees for Guests

Guests’ service fees vary from six to 15 percent of the reservations’ subtotal. Guests may also be subject to cancellation charges depending on your policies. 

Vrbo has the following options: 

No Refund : Reservations are non-refundable under any circumstances.

Strict : Reservations are fully refundable up to 60 days before the start of the stay.

Firm : Reservations are fully refundable up to 60 days before the start of the stay. Guests can receive a 50 percent refund for cancellations made up to 30 days before the beginning of the stay.

Moderate : Reservations are fully refundable up to 30 days before the start of the stay. Guests can receive a 50 percent refund for cancellations made up to 14 days before the beginning of the stay.

Relaxed : Reservations are fully refundable up to 14 days before the start of the stay. Guests can receive a 50 percent refund for cancellations made up to seven days before the beginning of the stay.

Vrbo Dynamic Pricing Tool

Airbnb lets you activate “Smart Pricing” to adjust your rate by demand automatically. And fortunately, the vacation rental site lets you connect dynamic pricing software to your listing to take advantage of pricing tools like Wheelhouse. 

Most Vrbo pricing tools start with your base price. The base price considers the historical value of your vacation property. Your competition’s listings can give you an idea of a pricing point for your rental.

When setting a base price, consider: 

Looking at past performance data

Evaluating local sights and tourism

Your ownership costs, such as your mortgage and property taxes

Amenities, renovations, and guests’ reviews all impact your base price. You may need to adjust your price after upgrading a bathroom or receiving a poor review. These factors affect your listing, but not the whole market.

Basing your listing on comps is a good strategy, but that only works if the pricing is correct. They – and you – could be leaving money on the table if you don’t utilize a proper dynamic pricing strategy . 

What is dynamic pricing?

Dynamic pricing is the practice of varying the rate to reflect changing market conditions. It’s the reason things are more expensive during certain days of the week or times of the year. 

For the most profitable Vrbo pricing, you want to set a higher price at times with more demand. Likewise, you want to set rates lower during slower periods. Empty properties still cost money if they are unoccupied. 

Instead of tracking and analyzing all of this on your own… 

The website’s fees.

Occupancy rates.

Real-time demand trends. 

Your out-of-pocket costs, like cleaning fees.

Discounted and bundled pricing. 

…a revenue management tool that uses dynamic pricing can do this for you.

Factors That Determine Dynamic Pricing

Seasonality is one factor, causing higher booking for:

Beach houses in the warm months.

Ski chalets in the winter. 

New Orleans homes during Mardi Gras.

Your rental calendar could also have different rates based on the days of the week. For instance, downtown rentals are higher on weekends, whereas the financial district could be more popular for traveling business people during the workweek. Family members and sports fans may want to visit college towns on Thursdays or during a game.  

Similarly, local events can cause a higher demand for accommodations. Again, using college towns as an example, parents could flood these areas for graduation. Keep a calendar of local events. 

Your Vrbo pricing should also consider discounts for times with low demand. Review your booking calendar and lower your daily rate to improve the chances of a booking. A lower price can increase your listing’s visibility since many travelers sort options by the lowest price. 

Benefits of Using Dynamic Pricing with Vrbo

Dynamic pricing Vrbo software automatically sets your listings’ rates based on thousands of factors. Here are some of the benefits of using this pricing software:

More bookings. Dynamic pricing helps you seize all potential travelers. Segmented pricing and reduced time-based pricing mean higher occupancy rates.

Higher visibility . Your listing can stand out from your competition by setting rates slightly lower. 

Increased revenue . Wheelhouse’s research discovered that dynamic pricing averages a 22.6% revenue increase per listing. 

More time and less money . Vrbo pricing guide software does the research and analysis on your behalf, saving you time and resources trying to set the best price. 

Adaptability . The market changes and trends influence how much your guests may be willing to pay. Price flexibility helps boost your sales. 

Dynamic pricing software can make your job easier if you are responsible for managing multiple properties. Or, suggest it to your vacation rental management company if you are concerned about getting the highest revenue property.

Best Dynamic Pricing Tools for VRBO

A dynamic pricing Vrbo tool can increase your occupancy levels and maximize your revenue without you spending hours comparing data. Here are some of the best:

1. Wheelhouse

Wheelhouse is a pricing tool for every type of real estate investor—hobby hosts, advanced owners, and professional property owners. The software includes an adaptable pricing tool, market insights, competition data monitoring, and ultimate customization capabilities.

Simply enter details about your portfolio and watch the magic happen with easily adjustable pricing. Customers rave about the platform’s intuitive interface and endless customization capabilities, including far-future predictions and risk tolerance. 

Base, minimum, and maximum price

Configurable risk tolerance

Weekend adjustments

Far-future pricing

Performance tracking. dashboards, and targets

Easy preview

Market insights

Pro Plan #1: 1% of revenue with a minimum monthly fee of $2.99/month

Discounts for 100+ listings

Pro Plan #2: $19.99/month, with the following discounts: 

15% ($16.99)for 10-49 listings

30% ($13.99) for 50-100 listings

Contact for discounts on 100+ listings

Wheelhouse Enterprise

Contact for pricing, custom offerings for 100+ listings

2. Beyond Pricing

Beyond Pricing is a revenue management solution that’s a one-stop-shop for short-term rental managers. Founded in 2013, the company provides services for over 340,000 listings in 7,500 cities worldwide. This pricing software focuses on three major demand factors to inform its pricing automations:

Seasonality

Local Demand

Day of the Week

The tool provides market insights and intuitive dashboards, allowing you to view your portfolio at a glance. Overall, customer reviews are good, with users improving profitability and heightening occupancy. 

Last-minute deals

Market-based health scores

Individual listing reviews

Pricing strategies

Travel agency syncing

Portfolio performance insights

1:1 expert consultations

30-day free trial

1% of bookings each month, with credits refunded for each cancellation

Two payment methods:

Pay on Book (1% charged upon the reservation)

Pay on Stay (1.49% charged when the guest checks in)

3. Pricelabs

PriceLabs is a dynamic pricing software monitoring current and historical booking information to recommend pricing. It also offers a market dashboard to help you measure your portfolio performance against the competition, assessing a wide variety of factors like: 

Occupancy predictions

Bookings and cancellations

Competition pricing

Industry trends

Unfortunately, customers report challenges using the platform because it’s not user-friendly. Additionally, the tool is pricier than others on the market.

Last-minute adjustments

Holiday pricing adjustments

Orphan day prices

Occupancy-based adjustments

Day-of-week pricing

Minimum prices

$19.99/month for one listing

Portfolio analytics are free.

Get the Most Out of Vrbo Pricing

If you choose to list with Vrbo, it’s important to maximize your listings’ potential. How does an average increase in revenue of 40% sound? 

Good, right? Then try Wheelhouse. Our intelligent pricing software studies over 10 billion data points to recommend the perfect pricing for every rental, You retain complete control over your pricing and pricing strategy and adjustments can reflect your risk tolerance and business goals. 

Because it’s dynamic, the recommended pricing changes with the market to ensure maximum occupancy. Price your listings aggressively to maximize your potential revenue or set conservative pricing to optimize your booking possibilities.

Best of all, you can choose to manage your prices manually, or set-and-forget for a more hands-off approach. As your portfolio grows, the software scales to help you manage all of your rentals. 

Ready to see dynamic pricing in action? Try Wheelhouse today !

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Airbnb vs. Vrbo: Pitting the Largest Short-Term Rental Platforms Against Each Other

Wouter Geerts , Skift

September 7th, 2023 at 11:30 AM EDT

Everything you'd want to know about the two largest short-term rental online travel agents (OTAs) in a 20-chart factbook.

Wouter Geerts

In the world of short-term rentals, there are many ways people can book a stay. Offline bookings continue to make up a significant chunk of the market, albeit a declining one, and there are many niche online booking platforms, as highlighted in our Skift Short-Term Rental 250 map .

But the vast majority of bookings today come through three platforms: Airbnb, the market leader; Expedia Group’s Vrbo; and Booking Holdings’ Booking.com, which has a different strategy in terms of the types of properties it sells, property managers it works with, and its geographical focus. 

In a new report by Skift Research , we focus on the two largest short-term rental online travel agencies in North America: Airbnb and Vrbo, and where data is available, we also add Booking.com to the mix. We investigate the types of listings on each platform, the value and returns on these listings, booking behavior and business dynamics that set these different platforms apart. 

What You’ll Learn In This Report

• Skift Research estimates of gross bookings and revenues for the three largest short-term rental OTAs.
• Estimates of the global market size of short-term rentals.
• Airbnb and Vrbo’s geographic mix, property types, destination mix, and ownership.
• Similarly, comparisons of metrics like bookings, market share by region, length of stay, and booking windows.

This is the latest in a series of reports and data products that Skift Research puts out to help you analyze the biggest trends in the travel industry. Tap into the opinions and insights of our seasoned network of staffers and contributors. More than 200 hours of desk research, data collection, and/or analysis goes into each report.

By subscribing to Skift Research, you will gain access to our entire vault of reports conducted on topics ranging from technology to marketing strategy to deep dives on key travel brands. You will also be able to access our proprietary Skift Travel Health Index, Skift Travel Company Tracker, Hotel Tech Benchmark, and data from our regular traveler surveys.

Short-Term Rental OTAs: Airbnb vs Vrbo in 20 Charts

We attempt to tell you everything you’d want to know about the Airbnb – Vrbo rivalry in 20 charts… Sadly we failed, and give you 23 charts instead. As a bonus we sprinkle in some Booking.com analysis too, data permitting.

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: airbnb , booking holdings , booking.com , expedia group , short-term rentals , skift research , vacation rentals , vrbo

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Vrbo vs. Airbnb: Which Vacation Rental Website is Better?

Airbnb offers a wide array of accommodations including rooms and apartments, while Vrbo specializes in full-home rentals. We prefer Vrbo, but Airbnb will be better for some trips.

If you’re looking for extra room to accommodate more people, or missing the comforts of home, a vacation rental is an excellent alternative to staying in the usual hotel rooms. From wooden tree houses to luxury chalets, vacation rentals also let you experience something a bit out of the ordinary on your trip. And when it comes to booking the perfect rental, you’ll probably be deciding between Vrbo vs Airbnb.

Depending on your budget and travel style, there are advantages and disadvantages to each rental vacation site, but the premise for both Airbnb and Vrbo is the same: they give ordinary people a platform to easily offer private rentals to travelers. City travelers can enjoy an immersive neighborhood experience, while adventurous types can find incredible properties in some of the world’s most remote places. The possibilities are endless.

So, before you book your next trip, let’s put these two websites to the test and see how they stack up against each other.

Vrbo vs. Airbnb Comparison

Airbnb and Vrbo are two of the most popular vacation rental sites out there, and Vrbo is, in my opinion, the best Airbnb alternative on the market right now. At their core, they both offer different types of short and long term housing around the world. And while these sites may seem similar, there are some stark differences to be aware of before booking your rental.

The most significant difference between Airbnb and Vrbo comes down to what each one has to offer. Airbnb lists just about everything: entire properties, a private room in someone’s home, shared rooms (like hostel dorms), and even hotel rooms.

Vrbo isn’t in the business of renting out private or shared rooms—you’ll only find entire properties for rent here. Vrbo rentals include everything from cozy cottages to fully decked-out condos.

Also, while both sites have millions of property listings that you can easily search using a map view , Vrbo offers fewer rentals than Airbnb. Well, that’s an understatement…Airbnb has 5.6 million listings, and Vrbo has two million.

Furthermore, the level of customer support between both companies is also entirely different. If you have a problem with your booking or your vacation rental, Vrbo is more likely to offer assistance. Airbnb, on the other hand, takes a more passive approach to customer support, and should only be contacted after an issue has been resolved with the property owner.

The difference between Airbnb and Vrbo fees is also a sharp contrast, which I’ll explore more in detail in the following section.

Why I Like Vrbo

Although Airbnb has more listings, Vrbo is the better choice for vacation rentals.

I like that both platforms list tons of cool properties, like tiny homes and vacation villas. But, in the end, customer satisfaction is one of the most important factors when choosing a rental. Vrbo shines in this respect, and I’ve always had great experiences with Vrbo customer service. Incidents can always happen, and when they do, Vrbo has your back. They even have a direct support line , and they are very easy to get ahold of.

Airbnb’s customer service leaves a lot to be desired. It’s nearly impossible to find a direct contact, and you’ll usually end up lost in the weeds of the Help section or talking to a robot . And when it comes to negative Airbnb reviews, there’s actually a whole website dedicated to horror stories.

Perhaps that’s the pitfall of a vacation rental platform like Airbnb having tremendous growth over a relatively short amount of time—keeping on top of customer service turns into a challenge.

The total reservation cost for Vrbo properties also tends to be cheaper than Airbnb, and sometimes by quite a bit. It’s hard to ignore all those Vrbo benefits!

Differences Between Airbnb and Vrbo

Let’s look at the specifics of Vrbo vs Airbnb for each booking site to see which one is ultimately better for booking a vacation rental.

Types of Properties Listed

Airbnb has a large variety of rental options. You can rent the entire place, a private room in a shared house, or even a shared room with other travelers. Airbnb has even extended its platform to also include individual or shared rooms in hotels and hostels .

And because Airbnb lists more types of rentals, they have over five million homes, apartments, and rooms to choose from. Because of this, it’s often easier to find places to stay outside of traditional vacation destinations. If you want to get off the beaten path, Airbnb will certainly help.

On the other hand, Vrbo only allows you the rent entire properties, whether that’s a house, cottage, or apartment. That means you won’t find any shared homes or rooms listed on the site, which is good if you’re looking for more privacy. It’s not so good if you’re a budget traveler or someone who’s traveling solo and doesn’t need a giant place to stay all on your own.

Otherwise, both sites are more or less the same when it comes to home styles. You’ll find everything from private bungalows, mountaintop yurts and countryside villas on Airbnb and Vrbo. In addition, Airbnb and Vrbo also have a wide selection of eclectic homes, like tiny houses, bubble domes and shipping containers!

Still, if you want more variety and better budget options, Airbnb is the clear winner.

Service Fees

The cost of the service fees is typically much lower with Vrbo. Although the total price will depend on the cost of your rental, a Vrbo rental tends to be cheaper than an Airbnb rental.

The cost of the listing depends on a variety of factors, including location, size and length of stay. You will also need to add taxes, cleaning charges and website service fees to the total price of your vacation rental.

Even though Vrbo prices may sometimes appear more expensive at first glance, the service and cleaning fees are where you’ll see a big difference. The additional fees for Airbnb and Vrbo are very different.

Airbnb offers a split-fee structure. This means that an Airbnb service fee is taken from the host’s payout, and then a service fee is also charged to guests. Most hosts pay a 3% service fee , but some hosts may pay more (like Airbnb Plus hosts).

Most guests pay a service fee around 14% of the booking subtotal (the nightly rate plus cleaning fee and additional guest fee). But some guest service fees can be as high as 20%!

Sometimes, there’s a host-only fee for Airbnb, and as a guest you won’t have to pay any Airbnb service fee at all (this applies mostly for hotels renting out their hotel rooms).

Vrbo also adds a service fee to the cost of your booking, which is anywhere from 6-15% of your total cost. Since Vrbo doesn’t sell individual rooms, there’s no option for the host to cover the entire service fee. Vrbo is the better choice here because you’re more likely to pay lower fees for vacation rental services.

When it comes to other service fees, Airbnb hosts will set their own cleaning fees or sometimes an additional guest fee. The booking subtotal doesn’t include Airbnb fees for occupancy or taxes.

Similarly, Vrbo owners set their own cleaning fees as well.

For both Airbnb and Vrbo, the cleaning fee can be $100+ depending on your length of stay. All these fees are completely transparent on the rental site, so have a look before you book.

Quality of Customer Service

In terms of support, Vrbo is better than Airbnb.

For one, a Vrbo guest can add travel protection insurance to their booking. So, if you get sick and need to cancel your trip, you will still get a refund for the prepaid cost. And if you’re traveling with pets or children, you can purchase damage protection insurance to avoid any extra charges.

Each listing on Vrbo also automatically comes with their Book with Confidence Guarantee . Their support team is on hand to answer any questions before, during and after your stay. They also assist with finding another place to stay if the host cancels your rental.

On the other hand, Airbnb does not have travel insurance , and their customer support is usually only available for emergencies. They will only help if you are not able to access your rental or if the place is unsafe. And if you need a refund, they’ll require evidence that you tried to work things out with your host before contacting the help department. Airbnb’s lack of insurance and absence of readily available help is a big disappointment, in my opinion.

Tip: To save yourself the hassle, you can get a good sense of how easy it is to deal with the host based on their Airbnb reviews or Vrbo reviews. Follow the house rules, and you’re unlikely to have any issues at all.

Cancellation Policy

While the booking process is fairly similar for both Airbnb and Vrbo guests, cancellation policies are ain important piece of the puzzle. When it comes to cancellation policies, the Vrbo vs Airbnb argument isn’t so black or white. But Airbnb’s policies are much more flexible than Vrbo’s.

With Airbnb , you need to be aware of your host’s cancellation policy before you book. It’s really up to the host to set these details. A last-minute cancellation for a host who is relying on your income can be a big blow, especially if you’re booking short-term vacation rentals during a super busy time of year.

You can find the details of your cancellation policy in the Trips section when you click on “show trip details.”

When you’re actually booking a spot, the cancellation policies will be listed on the property page. The most flexible plan allows you to cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund, while the strictest option allows guests to receive a full refund if they cancel within 48 hours of booking . After that, you’re only entitled to a 50% refund if you cancel at least seven days before the trip begins.

Vrbo is much like Airbnb in this way —property owners set the cancellation policies, but even the most relaxed policy is very strict compared to Airbnb’s policy. With a relaxed policy, you can cancel at least 14 days before your check-in date and receive a full refund. On the other extreme end of the spectrum, some property owners opt for no refund policy at all.

The stricter cancellation policies are vital for property managers who own Vrbo or Airbnb properties in busy destinations, especially at certain times of the year. For example, you’re probably not going to have much luck canceling an accommodation in Munich during the height of Oktoberfest.

Vrbo vs Airbnb for Hosts: Listing Your Property

As many travelers are turning to vacation rental sites for travel accommodations, Vrbo, Airbnb, and other similar sites are becoming a great way to turn a lucrative profit. You list your property, and it turns up in the search results for travelers. No need to advertise.

Both Airbnb and Vrbo have straightforward processes for listing your vacation rental. It’s literally as easy as setting up a profile, filling in the details about your property, and uploading your images. Both Airbnb and Vrbo hosts are also subject to background checks for an extra layer of security.

With Vrbo, property managers have two different payment options: they can either pay a 3% credit card processing fee plus a 5% commission fee to the company for each booking , or they can have unlimited bookings for an annual fee of about $500 .

Airbnb is kinder to hosts, and only takes about a 3% host service fee from the total earnings. This fee can be a lot higher for hosts in Italy though (thanks to government legislation introduced to keep housing prices in Italy under control). Traditional hotels also pay a commission between 10-16% since they work on a host-only fee basis.

Which site is better for listing your property? It depends on how many bookings you expect. If you’re busy year-round, Vrbo’s subscription model could save you literally thousands of dollars.

It also depends on what type of property you want to rent out. Vrbo presents only entire homes or condos, while Airbnb allows you to rent out a single bedroom if you’d like.

Listing Fee Test

As a test, I compared prices between the same property on both Vrbo and Airbnb. Using a vacation rental in Kelowna, Canada, I went through the booking process for a two-night stay, and looked closely at each guest service fee. The cleaning fee is the same ($120), but the service fee on Vrbo is $73 while the service fee on Airbnb is $83.

Here’s the fee breakdown of the Airbnb listing:

And here’s the cost of the Vrbo property listing:

Notice the difference in “occupancy taxes and fees” for Airbnb vs Vrbo. The total price difference is very large.

A further dig into Airbnb’s higher tax cost came back with this nugget of information: “In areas that Airbnb has made agreements with governments or is required by law to collect and remit local taxes on behalf of hosts, Airbnb calculates these taxes and collects them from guests at the time of booking.” Vrbo does not yet have the same policy in place.

Prices across both booking sites can also vary wildly. Another property I compared even had two differently nightly rates…for the exact same dates. The Airbnb property was going for $311/night, while the Vrbo rental was going for $360/night. Even so, with all those fees and taxes factored in, the Vrbo rental was still cheaper by nearly $100!

At the very least, if you’re searching for an Airbnb property, see if you can find it on Vrbo and compare the costs (and vice versa). This extra few minutes of work is very worth your time if it means you’ll save some cash.

It’s true that we’ve heard some Airbnb horror stories over the years. Airbnb users have reported creepy hosts , misleading listings, and unsettling experiences in the neighborhoods where they’re staying. But those are few and far between, and Airbnb and Vrbo try to deal swiftly and fairly with those situations.

Vrbo doesn’t seem to receive as much public attention from horror stories, but on the other hand, it has only a fraction of the rental properties that Airbnb does.

Both sites work hard to protect their guests AND their hosts. There are background checks, age limits , watchlist checks, and a whole team of people dedicated to monitoring for scams and other risks. Airbnb even offers hosts free smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors !

Speaking from personal experience, I always read the reviews first to get a sense of the host and where I’m staying. I make sure to engage with the host when the booking is made, and I’ll typically avoid private rooms in someone else’s home—I’m much more comfortable with renting a full apartment or accommodation.

Trust your gut. Does something feel off? Cancel your reservation and explain the situation to the booking site.

Are Vrbo and Airbnb Ethical?

There’s no doubt you’ve heard all the fuss about over-tourism and the insane demands being placed on popular destinations in recent years. Airbnb has absolutely exploded in popularity over the last decade, and its impact has started crowding out locals in heavily touristed cities around the world. Take Barcelona, for example: new regulations have been introduced  to stem the flow of tourism and protect long-term housing for locals.

As shown in our price comparison above, some governments have begun implementing occupancy taxes in certain places. This levels the playing field for hotels and legitimate businesses, including family-owned bed and breakfasts that already have to pay such fees.

And some property owners have essentially begun snatching up cheap real estate and entire properties to turn into more vacation rentals, effectively becoming a vacation rental business in their own way. Even some real estate listings these days will list the Airbnb or Vrbo potential income. You can see how this is troublesome in congested cities where the lower-income population is struggling to find affordable housing.

But there are so many benefits of using sites like Vrbo and Airbnb as well. It’s more immersive, you can meet some wonderful people, and sometimes your unique accommodations are just out of this world. You’ll often find way more amenities in your accommodations than in your typical hotel room.

So how can you minimize your impact? There are a few things you can do:

• If you’re traveling to popular city destinations that are prone to massive tourism crowds, consider supporting a local family business (like a bed and breakfast) or staying in a regular licensed hotel or hostel. The local tourism board’s website will likely have a full list of these licensed accommodations.
• Avoid hosts with multiple listings. This is easy to do by clicking on the host’s profile and seeing if they have any other properties listed. Personally, it’s a red flag if they have more than two properties listed.
• Rent a room in someone’s house rather than the full house. This is a property owner who’s likely just trying to supplement their income rather than making a full living off their property.

Vrbo vs Airbnb: Final Thoughts

While both sites offer a variety of short and long-term rentals, Vrbo comes out on top for cheaper prices and excellent customer service (including great insurance policies).

To summarize, Airbnb is one of the only sites that offers shared accommodation. Single rooms and communal apartments tend to be much cheaper than renting the entire place, which is ideal for budget travelers. And since you will share the space with homeowners and other guests, you’ll have the opportunity to meet new people during your trip.

As a Vrbo guest, you’ll be required to book the entire apartment or home. But compared to Airbnb, the total price is usually a lot better on Vrbo.

In terms of service and support, Vrbo offers better trip protection compared to Airbnb. So if anything bad were to happen during your Vrbo stay, you’d be able to get the help you need.

Airbnb and Vrbo are both great sites, but Vrbo’s customer service and fairer prices just work better for me. Of course, these aren’t the only two vacation sites out there. But they’re certainly the two that have stood the test of time and have outlasted much the competition (RIP, Homeaway).

Does that mean I won’t compare properties across both sites when I’m planning my next trip? No. But Vrbo will always be my first choice.

With all these factors to take into account, it’s up to you to decide between Airbnb vs Vrbo—but I’m choosing Vrbo. Once you find the right listing, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy your vacation!

Vrbo vs. Airbnb FAQs

Which vacation rental site is the best.

In our opinion, Vrbo is the best vacation rental site.

Is Vrbo cheaper than Airbnb?

Vrbo is often cheaper than Airbnb because its service fee is typically lower.

Why do people use Vrbo instead of Airbnb?

People choose Vrbo over Airbnb because of its affordability and better customer service.

What percentage does Vrbo take from hosts?

Vrbo charges hosts a 3% processing fee and 5% commission. Or hosts can choose to pay a flat $500 annually.

Is Airbnb more expensive than Vrbo?

Airbnb is often more expensive than Vrbo because typically has much higher service and cleaning fees added to the rental price.

Jeremy Scott Foster

Just had an Airbnb home owner flake out and not even notify me. I had to figure out when the they would not answer my questions which I sent 8 days prior to rental (confirmed this rental 3 months ago) but not able to get them via email, text or phone – “mail box full”)) and come to see that someone else with same owner (a rental company) said this past week that the company had sold the home and not notified the air bnb renter who arrived with no where to stay. After 5-6 calls to air bnb finally got notice that all money will be refunded but since is a holiday weekend – I have to pay an additional $1000+ and our family reunion is now split up into 2 hotel rooms and a small rental for one couple so not only additional cost but nowhere to congregate during a pandemic (we know we are all vaccinated). Also one of the air bnb people who tried to help me (and said would call back but didn’t) told me that the rental had been discontinued 2 weeks before (and no one had contacted me). So I I had to scramble on my own to find somewhere for us all to stay not too far from each other just 4 days prior to flying out (holiday weekend so nearly impossible). I asked air bnb to pay the extra $1000 difference and they refuse. Will try VRBO or hotel next time I think.

I’m really sorry to hear that. Unfortunately, this is a common occurrence, and it’s happened to many, many friends of mine. With both of these platforms, you’re at the mercy of the host, but Airbnb’s customer support is abominable, and in my years and years of using them, I’ve almost never seen them address problems in a suitable way. They have too much market share and they don’t have the support infrastructure to handle it.

I can t agree more.Airbnb Customer service and support team suck.Many of them don t know their product and they don t know what they re doing.It just happened to me now.The airbnb support ambassador hang up on me.He made it sound like we were disconnected but I m sure we weren t.When the case is too complicated for them to handle and they don t know what to do,they disappear and never call back

We’ve done Airbnb and Homeaway (now Vrbo). Homeaway insisted we register with the city of LA even though we are not in LA. Nothing we could do would change their demand that we provide a city of LA registration. I even tried to trick LA into thinking that our place in Glendale was in LA, but the LA caught it and said, No. Even that info from LA did not change Homeaway’s demand and it cut us off in 2019. Thus, we went to airbnb.

At first Airbnb was great but it soon turned into an unmitigated nightmare costing us thousands of dollars in damages and lost rental income. Airbnb was catering to parties. One woman pretended she was renting for her family from Europe, but airbnb knew she was travel agent booker for entertainment groups from Eastern Europe, whom she charged a fortune. They made all sorts of demands and treated the 6 bedroom house like trash. They even overstayed their booking and refused to leave and refused to pay any additional rent. Airbnb supported them because Lily used Airbnb all the time for her hordes of guests.

When the pandemic arrived airbnb said it was anti-party but that was false. It intentionally book Hip Hop raves with hundreds of people despite our strict no party policy. Airbnb did it over and over at BOTH our houses. The police came but did nothing. In fact, Airbnb started the first surge in LA’s Black area by promoting these raves in the Hills. Airbnb was a lethal threat to everyone. All they did was lie about being anti-Party. The thing that stopped them was when someone was murdered at an illegal Airbnb rave in the Hollywood Hills and they got sued.

Airbnb consistently accepted outlandish falsehoods to allow guests to cancel even after the check-in date. One guy lied saying there was a gas leak. The gas company came out ASAP and verified there was no gas problem, but Airbnb accepted the lie as true and we lost one month’s rent, but airbnb rented him another location.

We were constantly “blackmailed” by false negative reviews which airbnb knew were false. One person said we had no heat and took a picture of the thermostat, which showed that there was heat since it was 50 degrees outside and 68 inside. Another showed a picture of some room which was not even part of the rental, but that did not matter to airbnb.

Another person brought his own defective electric wok and was blowing our circuit breakers. We had our contractor come out immediately after the first outage, but he did not know about the wok. This guy took his wok from outlet to outlet and fried 11 circuit breakers costing us thousands of dollars. We did not find out about the defective wok until after he had departed and I found the wok. Airbnb did not care as he was some big mucky muck in airbnb.

It seems that Aribnb’s business plan calls for corporate hosts with hundreds of rentals and who handle all problems. If a small host has a problem, Airbnb supports the guest. I believe that Airbnb is trying to drive away small hosts in favor of the corporate hosts.

We are moving back to Vrbo and doing private rentals.

Vrbo and Airbnb have a monopoly (duopoly, I think is the technical word) and that allows then to give rotten service, First Vrbo could not connect us to our calendar. finally, we did the opposite of what they suggested and we connected. Now Vrbo has a hacked bank account connected to our website. We told them that they have to remove that bank account as it will steal the renters’ money. We certainly will not let that happen. The person who would be harmed is the renter since we would not allow the renter to stay after the payment went to East Central Bulgaria or somewhere in the former Soviet Union. We were dealing with William who tried to help, or so he said, but then the link went dead and the contact links to HELP have disappeared. So now, we are using our former Homeaway and former Airbnb contact information to directly rent to former guests. as well as to family and friends. Direct renting is slow and tedious, but Vrbo is so grossly incompetent, we have no other choice.

Nice review and from a renter’s perspective I’ve saved up to 1K for the same listing on VRBO, but usually it’s in the $200-$400 dollar range which is still more than enough for me to go with VRBO. Talking to the owners it’s the difference in service fees they charge which is interesting because by all accounts AirBNB provides worse service. Happy Travels.

Airbnb really screws the homeowners. All Airbnb cares about is it Wall Street metrics — it is headed in the direction of Worldcom and Martin Shkreli. For a while these types ride high until their arrogance catches up to them. By then, however, thousands of innocent people have been harmed.

You are one of if not the only site ive found that has stated all of ABnbs fees (albeit not as clear as you should) All these other so called advice sites state abnb is cheaper because it only charges 3% and Vrbo 5+3% somehow missing the fact they charge the guest 15% !!! And thinking you are so dumb you dont realise thats your money that is lost-not the guests…

You say that Vrbo has a direct support line. Have you ever tried to use it? There is a litany of reviews from people who, like my son, were unable to access the one-week rental they had already paid for. He called two different numbers supplied by Vrbo and 5 times had to wait on hold for more than an hour – sometimes much longer – for anyone to answer. Twice he was promised a call back within 15 minutes. No one called. He was offered one night in a hotel for his family of six. The Vrbo rep seemed unconcerned that he was 6000 miles from home with nowhere to sleep. (He was fortunate to be taken in eventually by people with more empathy than Vrbo.) If they had offered an immediate refund, they might have found somewhere but, if he ever receives one, it will arrive too late to compensate for a ruined vacation. In this case the “Book with Confidence Guarantee turned out to be a farce.” An Air B & B robot might have been more helpful. (Note- a suitable, comparably priced alternative Air B & B apartment was available but, not surprisingly, Vrbo would not consider paying for it.)

Hello! Very interesting article and helpful to read as a short term host. I wanted to point out one error – Airbnb does offer insurance now. And I think it’s important to look at how both platforms treat hosts. From a hosting perspective, Airbnb is much better than VRBO. VRBO often accidentally overbooks because their calendars don’t always work. The website is often down and I can’t communicate with guests. They won’t deposit funds in a trust account, insisting on a checking account, even when our state law requires short term funds be deposited in a trust (savings) account until after check-out. They incorrectly report income on our 1099s to the IRS (overstated our income by 20K!) Their customer service is terrible for hosts which impacts guests. The fees are mostly the same for Airbnb and VRBO. After 11 years hosting on VRBO, I finally gave them up this year after another terrible customer service experience where if you don’t respond to their chat after 2 minutes, they disconnect you and you need to start all over again. This never happens on Airbnb which has excellent customer service through the chat or phone systems.

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Travel Agents Commissionable Vacation Rentals

When it comes to vacation rentals, travel agents can earn commissions on a wide variety of properties. This includes everything from cabins and condos to villas and mansions. In some cases, the agent may even earn a commission on the rental car that is used during the stay.

There are a few things to keep in mind when booking a commissionable vacation rental. First, it is important to find a rental that is within the agent’s network. This will ensure that the agent is able to properly market the property and that the commission is paid correctly.

It is also important to be aware of the terms and conditions of the rental. This includes things like the payment schedule and cancellation policy. By understanding the terms and conditions, the agent can ensure that the client is fully informed about what they are getting into.

Finally, it is important to be aware of the commission that the agent will earn. This will help the agent determine if the rental is worth recommending to the client. In most cases, the agent will earn a commission of around 10-15% of the rental cost.

By understanding the commissionable vacation rentals available, travel agents can ensure that they are able to earn a commission on every booking. This can help to increase their income and ensure that they are able to offer their clients the best possible deals.

• 1 Do travel agents use Vrbo?
• 2 Are travel agent rates commissionable?
• 3 Does Airbnb give travel agents commission?
• 4 Why use a travel agent instead of booking online?
• 5 Is it better to book through Vrbo?
• 6 Is it cheaper to book on Vrbo?
• 7 What are the disadvantages of using a travel agent?

Do travel agents use Vrbo?

There’s no one definitive answer to this question. Some travel agents do use Vrbo to find vacation rentals for their clients, while others do not.

Vrbo is a popular online marketplace for vacation rentals. It offers an easy way for people to find and book rentals around the world.

Vrbo has been growing in popularity in recent years, and many travel agents now use it to find rentals for their clients. It’s a great resource for finding unique and interesting properties in destinations all over the world.

Vrbo also offers a number of features that make it a convenient option for vacation rental bookings. It allows you to book online, and you can also make payments and receive confirmations online.

Vrbo also offers a number of customer support features, such as customer service through chat, email, and phone. This makes it easy to get help if you need it while you’re on vacation.

Overall, Vrbo is a great resource for finding vacation rentals, and it’s becoming more and more popular among travel agents. If you’re looking for a rental property, it’s definitely worth checking out.

Are travel agent rates commissionable?

This is a question that often comes up for travel agents. The answer, unfortunately, is not always straightforward.

Generally speaking, the rates that travel agents charge are not commissionable. This means that the travel agent does not earn a commission on the sale. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

For example, some cruise lines will pay a commission to travel agents on cruise bookings. And some hotels may also offer a commission on bookings.

It is important to note that not all travel agents are eligible to receive commissions from hotels and cruise lines. Typically, only agents who are members of a specific travel agency network or have a certain level of certification are eligible.

So, if you are a travel agent, it is important to research whether or not the rates you are charging are commissionable. If they are not, you may want to consider partnering with a travel agency network that offers commissionable rates.

Does Airbnb give travel agents commission?

This is a question that many travel agents are likely asking themselves these days. After all, with the rise of Airbnb, many travelers are now opting to book their travel arrangements online, rather than through a travel agent. So, does Airbnb give travel agents commission?

Unfortunately, the answer to that question is not a simple one. In fact, it seems that Airbnb does not currently offer any type of commission to travel agents. However, the company has indicated that it is interested in exploring ways to work more closely with travel agents in the future.

So, what does this mean for travel agents? Well, it means that you may need to start exploring other options, such as working with other online travel agencies, if you want to continue earning commission on travel bookings. It may also be a good idea to start marketing yourself as a specialist in Airbnb bookings, in order to attract more clients who are interested in using this service.

Overall, it seems that Airbnb is not currently offering travel agents commission, but the company may be exploring ways to change that in the future. In the meantime, travel agents may want to explore other options for earning commission on travel bookings.

Why use a travel agent instead of booking online?

There are many reasons why you might choose to use a travel agent instead of booking travel online. Travel agents have years of experience and knowledge, and can help you find the best deal on your trip. They can also provide personalised service, and help you with any problems or questions you have while on your trip.

Travel agents have access to special deals and discounts that you may not be able to find online. They can also help you plan your trip, and make suggestions about where to stay, what to see, and how to get around. If you have any problems while on your trip, your travel agent will be there to help you.

booking travel online can be a hassle, especially if you have any questions. Travel agents are there to help you, and can take care of all the details for you. They can also help you if something goes wrong on your trip.

Choosing a travel agent instead of booking online can be a great decision – you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’re getting the best deal and the best service possible.

Is it better to book through Vrbo?

That’s a question that’s been on a lot of people’s minds lately, as the home-sharing giant has been embroiled in a number of lawsuits. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of booking through Vrbo to help you decide what’s best for you.

On the pro side, booking through Vrbo can save you a lot of money. In many cases, you’ll get a better deal than you would if you booked through the hotel or rental company directly. Vrbo also offers a lot of flexibility; you can choose from a variety of rental properties, from apartments to condos to houses.

On the downside, there have been a number of reports of Vrbo properties that are in poor condition, or that don’t match the photos that were posted online. If you’re not careful, you could end up with a property that’s not what you were expecting. In addition, Vrbo can be a little more expensive than some of the other home-sharing options out there.

So, is it better to book through Vrbo?

That depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a great deal on a rental property, Vrbo is a good option. But if you’re looking for a high-quality property that’s been well-maintained, you may be better off going with a different site.

Is it cheaper to book on Vrbo?

Looking for a place to stay on your next vacation? You may be wondering if it’s cheaper to book on Vrbo. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of using this website to find your accommodation.

One of the biggest benefits of using Vrbo is that you can often find cheaper rates than you would through traditional hotel booking websites. This is because Vrbo allows property owners to list their properties directly, so you can often find some great deals.

However, it’s important to note that not all properties are listed on Vrbo, so you may not be able to find a place to stay in the specific area you’re looking for. Additionally, you may have to pay a service fee when booking through Vrbo, which can be a bit of a downside.

Overall, whether or not it’s cheaper to book on Vrbo depends on the specific situation. If you’re looking for a specific property in a certain location, Vrbo is likely to be your best bet. But if you’re open to a wider range of options, you may want to check out other hotel booking websites as well.

What are the disadvantages of using a travel agent?

When planning a trip, many people turn to travel agents for help. Travel agents can provide a variety of services, from finding flights and hotels to arranging tours and activities. While travel agents can be a great resource, they also have a few disadvantages.

One disadvantage of using a travel agent is that they often charge a fee. This fee can be a percentage of the total cost of the trip, or it can be a flat fee. Another disadvantage is that travel agents may not have the most up-to-date information. For example, they may not be aware of changes to flight schedules or hotel policies. Additionally, they may not be familiar with all the available options, which can lead to a less-than-ideal travel experience.

Finally, using a travel agent can also be less personal than arranging a trip on your own. You may not have as much control over the final outcome, and you may not get as much individualized attention.

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5 Best States for Generating Passive Income Through Vacation Rentals

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One of the best ways to build wealth is to buy a rental property and keeping it rented out on a consistent basis. Rental properties provide a steady source of passive income while also giving you an asset that appreciates in value. Vacation rentals can provide an even bigger income boost — provided you find the right market.

Among the biggest benefits of short-term vacation rentals is that you can charge a lot more than you can with long-term rentals. You might get $1,000 to $1,500 a month renting a property out to a full-time tenant. But with a vacation rental, you might get $1,500 or more a week. Even if you only rent it out for half the year, you’ll earn more than you would with a compete year of full-time rental income.

Before making the leap into a vacation rental investment , however, you need to figure out where to buy one. Obviously, the most important element of a vacation rental is that it is located where people actually take vacations. Getting a great deal on a rental home in the middle of nowhere won’t do you much good if you can’t find anyone to rent it.

Opinions vary on the best states to buy a vacation rental, but there are some common threads. The most important is that it offers tourist attractions such as beaches, mountains, sunshine, entertainment, history and culture. Other important factors include average home prices and the potential for properties to appreciate in value.

“It’s essential to focus on areas that offer both a high quality of life and potential for real estate appreciation or strong rental income,” Mike Wall, realtor with EXP Realty and partner at EZ Sell Homebuyers , told GOBankingRates in a recent interview .  “Consider factors such as location desirability, potential rental income, property management costs, and the overall investment strategy — e.g., long-term appreciation versus short-term rental income.”

Here’s a look at the five best states to generate passive income with a vacation rental, according to various real estate and management sites.

The main downside of buying a vacation rental in California is that it’s expensive. But the Golden State still lands at or near the top of most rental investment lists because it is a magnet for millions of travelers every year.  As a blog on the Management Library website noted, California offers an “abundance of amazing beaches and incredible city life,” pulls tourists in year-round, and has property taxes that “aren’t as bad” as you might think.

The Sunshine State placed six cities on a list of 25 best places in the U.S. to invest in vacation rentals that was recently compiled by AirDNA , a short-term rental data company. In addition to its famous beaches and luxury resorts, Florida boasts an “extra month of sunshine compared to the national average” every year, according to Management Library. That extra sunshine helps guarantee year-round vacation income.

Las Vegas gets most of the attention, but there’s a lot more to Nevada than Sin City. Other tourist attractions include the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, Lake Tahoe, Zion National Park and Red Rock Canyon. One especially good place to invest in a vacation rental is North Las Vegas, which has average home values below $400,000 and high rates of revenue per room.

North Carolina

Vacationers flock to North Carolina to enjoy its beaches, Blue Ridge Mountains and urban centers such as Charlotte and Raleigh. Homes are affordable compared with other vacation hotspots, and property taxes are about average.

South Carolina

Like its neighbor to the north, South Carolina offers beaches and mountains, along with plenty of history and culture in cities like Charleston and Greenville. The Palmetto State also has some of the lowest property taxes in the country and plenty of affordable homes.

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