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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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Vrbo travel agent portal.

Are you tired of the same old hotel experience? Do you want to make your vacation more memorable and unique? Look no further than VRBO – a vacation rental platform that connects travelers to homeowners who offer their properties for rent.

But did you know that VRBO also has a dedicated travel agent portal? This portal, exclusively designed for travel agents, offers a seamless booking experience for vacation rentals. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the VRBO travel agent portal and how you can use it to offer your clients the perfect vacation rental.

What is VRBO?

VRBO, short for Vacation Rentals By Owner, is a vacation rental platform owned by Expedia Group. It was founded in 1995 and has since grown to become one of the leading vacation rental platforms in the world. The platform offers over two million unique properties across 190 countries, making it a one-stop-shop for travelers looking for a home away from home.

Unlike traditional hotels, VRBO properties range from cabins and cottages to villas and condos, so there’s something for everyone. Travelers can expect more space, privacy, and amenities than a typical hotel room, making VRBO perfect for families, groups, and even pets.

What is the VRBO Travel Agent Portal?

The VRBO Travel Agent Portal is a dedicated platform designed for travel agents to book vacation rentals for their clients. It offers a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to search for and book vacation rentals.

The portal offers a wide range of vacation rental options, from budget-friendly to luxury properties. Travel agents can filter search results based on location, dates, and price range to find the perfect rental for their clients.

Additionally, the portal offers a feature called “Instant Booking,” which allows travel agents to confirm bookings instantly without waiting for approval from the homeowner. This feature makes the booking process faster and more efficient.

How to Access the VRBO Travel Agent Portal?

To access the VRBO Travel Agent Portal, you’ll need to sign up for a VRBO account and complete the travel agent verification process. Once approved, you’ll have access to the portal, where you can start searching for vacation rentals for your clients.

When searching for properties, travel agents can choose to show the client rates inclusive of their commission, making it easier to calculate the total cost for their clients.

Additionally, the portal offers a feature called “Wish List,” which allows travel agents to save properties they like for future reference.

Benefits of Using the VRBO Travel Agent Portal

Using the VRBO Travel Agent Portal offers several benefits for travel agents. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Easy booking: The portal offers a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to search for and book vacation rentals.
• Wide range of properties: With over two million unique properties across 190 countries, travel agents have access to a wide range of vacation rentals.
• Instant Booking: The “Instant Booking” feature allows travel agents to confirm bookings instantly without waiting for approval from the homeowner.
• Commission: Travel agents can earn commission on every booking made through the portal, making it a great source of income.
• Wish List: The “Wish List” feature allows travel agents to save properties they like for future reference.

The VRBO Travel Agent Portal offers a seamless booking experience for travel agents looking to book vacation rentals for their clients. With a wide range of properties, a user-friendly interface, and an “Instant Booking” feature, travel agents can offer their clients a unique and memorable vacation rental experience. So why not sign up for the VRBO Travel Agent Portal today and start booking your clients’ dream vacation rental?

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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.

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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Answer to all Questions

Does Vrbo Work With Travel Agents

As the world’s largest online marketplace for vacation rentals VRBO® connects travelers with homeowners or property managers of more than two million unique places to stay in 190 countries. But what if you’re a professional travel agent looking to book a vacation rental on behalf of your clients?The good news is that VRBO works with travel agents! Here’s everything you need to know about using VRBO as a professional travel agent.

How to Use VRBO as a Travel AgentIf you’re a professional travel agent looking to book a vacation rental for your clients you can create a free account on VRBO.com. Just click on the “Travel Agents” link at the bottom of the homepage and then “Create a free Travel Agent account.

”Once you’ve created your account you can start searching for vacation rentals. When you find a rental that your clients would love just click on the “Contact Owner” button to send a message to the homeowner or property manager.In your message be sure to include your travel agent ID and IATA number so that the owner or property manager knows that you’re a professional travel agent.

You can also include any special requests that your clients have such as a particular type of property or amenities.Once you’ve found the perfect vacation rental for your clients the owner or property manager will send you a contract. Just sign the contract on behalf of your clients and return it to the owner or property manager.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully booked a vacation rental for your clients on VRBO.Why Use VRBO as a Travel Agent?There are lots of reasons why you should use VRBO as a professional travel agent.

First of all VRBO offers a wide selection of vacation rentals all over the world. You’re sure to find a rental that your clients will love no matter where they want to go. VRBO also offers great deals on vacation rentals.

You can often find discounts of 10% or more when you book through VRBO. And when you sign up for a free VRBO account you’ll receive exclusive travel agent discounts and offers.Another great reason to use VRBO as a travel agent is that you’ll have access to 24/7 customer support.

If you have any questions about using VRBO or booking a rental you can contact VRBO’s customer support team anytime day or night.So if you’re looking for the perfect vacation rental for your clients be sure to check out VRBO.com.

You’re sure to find a rental that your clients will love at a great price.

How do I list my property on VRBO?

Table of Contents

You can list your property on VRBO by creating a free account and listing your rental property.

How do I contact a traveler?

You can contact a traveler through theVRBO website by sending them a message.

How do I pay my VRBO listing fee?

You can pay your VRBO listing fee through the website by credit card PayPal or check.

What is the VRBO cancellation policy?

The VRBO cancellation policy varies depending on the rental property and the owner.

How do I edit my VRBO listing?

You can edit your VRBO listing by logging into your account and going to the listing page.

How do I know if my VRBO listing is active?

You can know if your VRBO listing is active by logging into your account and going to the listing page.

What if I need to cancel my VRBO reservation?

You can cancel your VRBO reservation by contacting the owner of the rental property.

How do I find a VRBO property?

You can find a VRBO property by using the search function on the website.

What are the VRBO check-in and check-out times?

The VRBO check-in and check-out times vary depending on the rental property and the owner.

How do I rate my VRBO experience?

You can rate your VRBO experience by writing a review of the rental property.

What methods of payment does VRBO accept?

VRBO accepts credit cards PayPal and checks.

How do I contact VRBO customer service?

You can contact VRBO customer service by phone email or live chat.

How do I know if a VRBO property is available?

You can know if a VRBO property is available by checking the listing page.

What is the VRBO refund policy?

The VRBO refund policy varies depending on the rental property and the owner.

How does VRBO work?

VRBO is an online marketplace that connects renters and property owners.

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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 our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

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.

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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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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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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.

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

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7 Differences Between VRBO vs. Airbnb: A Full Comparison

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

Are you looking for a full comparison between VRBO vs. Airbnb as you explore options on where to stay and what rental sites to choose from?

If you’re looking for a place to stay rather than in a standard hotel, you’ll find that there are thousands of vacation rental options available.

As the top two competitors in the online vacation rental marketplace, VRBO and Airbnb have several similarities but have their differences as well.

This article will take a look at the differences between VRBO vs. Airbnb in order to help you decide which is a better choice based on your budget and travel style.

Book your next trip with confidence knowing that you have analyzed the fine print outlining the differences between VRBO vs. Airbnb.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link.  

Table of Contents

First, why choose either?

When planning a getaway, many people are opting to stay in a private, one-of-a-kind vacation rental versus in a standard hotel.

With options such as uniquely-themed homes, beachfront cottages, cozy cabins, a tiny house, or an upscale condo, the exciting and affordable options are endless when it comes to booking vacation rental properties.

Most report that the main reasons for staying in a private vacation rental vs. a standard hotel room are cost savings, additional space, and pet-friendliness.

In addition, the conveniences of having a kitchen, laundry, and multiple bedrooms and bathrooms draw larger families and groups to choose the more sizeable Airbnb or VRBO properties.

Last, some prefer the feeling of living locally, for, unlike hotels, these rented spaces are naturally dispersed throughout local neighborhoods and communities.

With both Airbnb and VRBO showcasing similar amenity-packed home listings, there are different features of each.

In order to understand the differences between Airbnb and VRBO , let’s start by taking a look at their similarities.

Similarities between VRBO vs. Airbnb

• Making reservations
• Contacting hosts
• Cleaning fees

Websites like Airbnb and VRBO are online accommodation marketplaces that cater to both guests and hosts.

Through these platforms, hosts can lease out their homes or living space and guests can rent a place to stay.

Airbnb and VRBO act as brokers in that by advertising and executing a transaction, they receive a commission from each booking.

Anyone can sign up to be a host, and each platform has an outlined non-discrimination policy that allows anyone to serve as a paying guest.

Making Reservations on VRBO vs. Airbnb

Booking an Airbnb or VRBO property is similar in that all reservations are made online.

The two ways to secure a reservation include Instant Book or 24-hour Confirmation.

With Instant Booking, the platforms will immediately charge your credit card and send an email confirmation.

When Instant Booking is not available, hosts have 24 hours to review your application and to accept or deny your request.

Once accepted, your credit card is charged and a confirmation email is sent.

In the instance of 24-Hour Confirmation bookings, you may cancel a pending request at any time before the host accepts.

Slight difference: VRBO has a very specific Book with Confidence Guarantee and Trust & Safety page, while Airbnb simply has a Trust & Safety page.

In addition, VRBO charges a refundable security deposit to your credit card at the time of booking.

Airbnb simply places these funds on hold and does not charge your credit card unless the property owner files a claim.

Contacting your VRBO vs. Airbnb Hosts

Both Airbnb and VRBO have a secure online messaging system for communicating with rental hosts.

To contact an owner or a property manager prior to making a reservation, guests simply message hosts directly from the respective property listing.

Click “Contact Host” on the Airbnb listing page, and “Ask A Question” through VRBO.

If you have already made a reservation, you can access your guest account to find out how to contact the vacation rental owner or manager.

You will then be directed to either email or call the host to communicate with before and during your stay.

Neither platforms allow guests to call or email a host until a reservation has been confirmed.

Cleaning Fees on Airbnb vs. VRBO

Airbnb and VRBO both allow property hosts to charge a cleaning fee at their discretion.

Cleaning fees help hosts account for extra expenses they have getting their listing ready before guests arrive or after guests depart.

Slight difference: VRBO has a strict policy that hosts must clearly display the cleaning fee on the property listing page.

The displayed price per night does not include the cleaning fee as it is a separate charge.

Airbnb, on the other hand, displays the price per night and does not specify whether or not a cleaning fee is rolled in.

Guests will not find what the cleaning fee is until at checkout.

Unfortunately, the additional cost of the cleaning fee contributes to the Airbnb service fee, which drives the final price up even further.

Differences Between VRBO vs. Airbnb

• Company basics
• Rental types
• Host network
• Service fees
• Cancellations
• Additional features
• Review section
• Customer service

Company Basics

Airbnb : Airbnb is a much younger company than VRBO.

Founded in 2008 under the name Air Bed & Breakfast, Airbnb came to fruition after its rebranding in 2009.

Airbnb is a force to be reckoned with, however , as the most recent statistics boast a total of 80 million monthly site visitors.

It is approximated that 2 million people stay in an Airbnb property every single night.

VRBO: Airbnb’s biggest competitor is VRBO.

VRBO stands for Vacation Rental by Owner and has been in business since 1995. After merging with Homeaway.com in 2005 and VacationRentals.com in 2007, VRBO has steadily grown into a global-wide community.

With its longstanding track record and presence in 190 countries, VRBO continues to be a top player in the travel industry.

HomeAway and VRBO share all of the same properties.

For example, searching one site produces the exact same results as the other.

Differences Between VRBO vs. Airbnb: Rental Types

Vacation rental via Airbnb and VRBO is a matter of engaging in an online search to find a space that suits your style and your needs.

As mentioned, options include houses, condos, beach houses, cabins , yurts, and so much more.

Airbnb: The biggest differentiator between Airbnb and VRBO accommodations is that Airbnb users can rent single rooms in shared spaces.

Examples include a spare bedroom in someone’s home or in a hostel.

Such accommodations obviously lack the privacy of a full-property rental, but they’re great for travelers who don’t mind sharing amenities in exchange for a lower nightly rate.

Airbnb is also known to offer one-of-a-kind stays in tiny houses, castles, treehouses, yurts, and even private islands.

These unique stays are rarely offered by VRBO and other competitors.

Last, there is a high concentration of Airbnbs in city destinations.

This attracts more city and business travelers to Airbnb vs. VRBO.

VRBO: VRBO focuses exclusively on private residences which is the primary reason that VRBO has fewer property listings than Airbnb.

Options typically include a house, cottage, or apartment.

Travelers who want to book stays in traditional vacation destinations flock to sites like VRBO because they are more known for their large inventories in touristy destinations.

Read: Top 5 Tips to Choose the Best Vacation Rental

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Differences Between VRBO vs. Airbnb: Host Network

Airbnb: Airbnb currently advertises hosting more than 5.6 million listings in over 100,000 cities and 220 countries and regions.

This extensive host network is perhaps Airbnb’s biggest advantage over other listing platforms.

You can literally find an Airbnb anywhere.

VRBO: Compared to Airbnb’s 5.6 million listings, VRBO boasts over 2 million rentals worldwide.

Keep in mind, however, that while VRBO offers fewer rentals, they only list whole houses, condos, or apartments.

Users can rest assured that they will not be sharing space with the homeowner or other guests.

Differences Between Airbnb vs. VRBO: Service Fees

Both Airbnb and VRBO charge service fees to cover the costs of the company’s products and services.

Airbnb: Most commonly issued, the split-fee structure deducts 3% from the host payout, and a guest service fee that is under 14.2% of the booking subtotal (the nightly rate plus cleaning fee and additional guest fee, if applicable).

On rare occasions, properties offer a host-only fee of 14%-16% and no Airbnb service fee is paid by guests.

VRBO: The cost of the service fees is typically much lower with VRBO.

Guests are charged a 6-12% service fee of the total reservation cost, minus taxes when booking through VRBO.

It is important to note that hosts don’t have the ability to discount or waive the service fee.

If the reservation is within the window for a 100% refund per the property’s cancellation policy, the service fee will be automatically refunded when the cancellation is confirmed.

With both platforms, you’ll find that the service fee percentage is generally higher for affordable properties and lower for more expensive properties.

Differences Between Airbnb vs. VRBO: Cancellations

Airbnb : Property owners set their own Airbnb cancellation policies on a 6-tiered scale including the Flexible, Moderate, Strict, Long Term, Super Strict 30 days, and Super Strict 60 days cancellation options.

It is important to look over each listing individually to determine its cancellation policy and understand the details of each.

The Airbnb service fee is refundable three times a year when the cancellation takes place within 48 hours of booking and at least 14 days before the scheduled stay.

VRBO: VRBO property owners are also allowed to set their own cancellation policies , so it is important to read over the listing information carefully.

Refunds are given in accordance with the property owner’s specific cancellation policy based on these 6 policy options: No refund, 60-day, 60/30 day, 30/14 day, 14/7 day, or a custom policy.

Cancellations and refunds do not include the VRBO vacation rental service fee.

Differences Between Airbnb and VRBO: Special Features

Airbnb : Not only is Airbn b a place to list and search for short-term lodging, but it also includes a unique “Experiences” section.

Airbnb Experiences are carefully selected activities that guests can choose to do near their Airbnb destination. As advertised, they are “One-of-a-kind activities hosted by locals” which include things like cooking classes, yoga, or other classes and workshops.

Airbnb guests pay a private individual through the platform to take part in these immersive activities.

VRBO: Where VRBO shines over Airbnb is that it has an extensive search filter when narrowing down properties.

VRBO also offers “Trip Boards” where you can build collections of your favorite properties.

Trip boards allow you to save, organize, and compare all the places you love.

You can then invite family (or other members of your travel party) to save homes, vote, and comment on your trip board.

Differences Between AirBnb and VRBO: Review Section

Airbnb: The Airbnb website features an active review culture that lets guests leave their thoughts after their stay.

Airbnb reviews are based on 5 stars per section (accuracy, communication, cleanliness, location, check-in, and value) and include a search function to make filtering easier.

VRBO: VRBO also offers a thorough review section after each booking. The VRBO review section also allows homeowners to post a response to the reviewer.

This can give helpful insight into understanding bad to moderate reviews.

Customer Service

VRBO guests can add travel protection insurance to their booking.

This means that if something comes up and you need to cancel your trip, you will still get a refund for the prepaid cost.

Also, if you’re traveling with children or pets, you can purchase damage protection insurance to avoid any extra charges from potential damages.

In addition, they have a 24-hour direct customer support line for questions or assistance related to your booking.

Airbnb, on the other hand, does not offer travel insurance and does not have a direct customer support team or phone number for non-emergencies.

If you need a refund, they’ll require evidence that you’ve tried to work things out with the host.

For non-emergencies, you’re required to first complete an online form, are given a case number, and are told that you’ll be followed up with after ‘additional investigation’.

Which is Safer, Airbnb vs. VRBO?

In terms of Airbnb vs. VRBO being safer, it’s a toss-up.

There are always certain risks that arise when traveling and booking short-term rentals.

The safety in renting vacation rentals lies in watching out for misleading listings and in determining the actual location of the property.

In fact, my top vacation rental tips include asking plenty of questions, studying the location, and reading the majority (if not all) of the reviews.

Likewise, look for advertised safety features in the property listings as well as study the profile of the person or company renting out the property.

This includes checking the social channels of the renter as well as asking specific questions once the booking is made to determine whether or not you feel comfortable with the property.

Conclusion on the Differences Between Airbnb and VRBO

Both Airbnb has their unique pros and cons, but VRBO is a step above Airbnb in almost every way.

• Larger host network of available properties
• Offers both private properties as well as a private room in shared spaces
• More options with a lower average price
• Security deposit is not charged to a credit card unless a claim is filed
• Airbnb Experiences feature
• Better for city travelers and adventure seekers?
• Smaller host network but with a higher concentration of high-end properties
• Only rent ‘whole’ spaces and entire homes; have the entire property to yourself
• Upfront cleaning fee
• Lower service fees
• Book with Confidence Guarantee
• Great search filtering system and Trip Boards feature
• Better for luxury rentals, families, and large groups?

*Before leaving, be sure to check our Travel Resources Page to find our exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

If you like our article on the differences between Airbnb and VRBO , click here to check out our Related Posts:

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Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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Dealing with a last minute host cancellation with VRBO was a nightmare. Will never use them again.

This is a great tip for other readers as a reminder to look into cancellation policies. etc. I am sorry that you had that experience…

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I have used vrbo a few times and have my first airbnb stay coming up! i knew they were a little different, but this is a great article about the differences!

Thanks! I have rented with VRBO several times. Let me know how AirBnb goes! I too loved learning the differences!

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