If you’re considering becoming a host and renting out your property, it’s essential to understand the differences between VRBO and Airbnb to make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and preferences. In this guide, we’ll explore the finer points of each platform, equipping you with the insights needed to make an informed choice that aligns with your hosting ambitions and property characteristics.

Understanding VRBO and Airbnb:

VRBO (Vacation Rentals by Owner): VRBO, founded in 1995, is one of the pioneers in the vacation rental industry. It is often associated with larger properties, such as cabins and beach houses. VRBO emphasizes family-oriented stays and longer-term rentals, making it an appealing choice for families, larger groups, or extended stays.

Airbnb: Airbnb, established in 2008, is perhaps the most recognizable name in the short-term vacation rental market. It offers a diverse range of accommodations, including entire homes, private rooms, and shared spaces. Airbnb is known for its flexibility, catering to both leisure and business travelers, and often appealing to those looking for unique and localized experiences.

Key Considerations for Hosts:

1. Type of Property: Consider the type of property you intend to host. If you have a larger, family-oriented property, VRBO might be a better fit. On the other hand, if you’re renting out a spare room or a smaller property, Airbnb’s diverse audience might be more suitable.
2. Target Audience: Define your target audience. VRBO typically attracts families and groups seeking more extensive accommodations for vacations, while Airbnb’s user base is more varied and larger homes, as well as places for solo travelers, couples, and business travelers.
3. Rental Duration: Think about how long you want to rent out your property. VRBO tends to attract longer-term stays, making it suitable for hosts who prefer guests to stay for a week or more. Airbnb, on the other hand, accommodates both short-term and extended stays.
4. Pricing and Fees: Compare the pricing structures and fees of both platforms. VRBO often charges hosts an annual subscription fee and a lower guest service fee, while Airbnb typically charges hosts a percentage of each booking along with a guest service fee. Consider which fee structure aligns better with your financial goals.
5. Listing Visibility: Research the visibility of your listing on each platform. Airbnb has a larger user base and global reach, which could lead to more exposure for your listing, but could also lead to being buried. VRBO is a more targeted platform, therefore you may have a better chance. Again, this is all depending on your target audience.

Listing on Both Platforms and Using Booking Software

For hosts seeking maximum exposure and booking flexibility, listing the same rental property on both VRBO and Airbnb can be a strategic move. This approach allows you to tap into the different user bases and booking preferences of each platform.

However, managing two sets of reservations can be challenging and might lead to potential double bookings. To prevent this, use a reliable booking management software that syncs your calendars across both platforms. These tools automatically update availability in real time, ensuring that guests on either platform can only book dates that are truly available. By streamlining your booking process and avoiding the risk of overlapping reservations, you can provide a seamless experience for your guests and maintain a positive reputation as a reliable host across both VRBO and Airbnb.

Ultimately, the decision should be based on your property’s characteristics and your hosting goals. Whether you opt for the family-oriented appeal of VRBO or the diverse, localized experience of Airbnb, both platforms can provide opportunities for hosts to share their spaces and create memorable stays for travelers from around the world.

Ready to list? Read whether your listing is even “in play”.