As a short-term rental management company, we often get asked which online rental platform is best. The answer depends on your property and hosting situation. If you rent individual rooms in a hosted property, Airbnb is your best option. For entire house rentals, both Airbnb and Vrbo are good choices, but there are key differences between them.
Fees:
- Airbnb charges a 15.5% fee for hosts.
- Vrbo offers a choice between a flat annual fee of $499 for unlimited bookings or a pay-per-rental commission of 5% plus a 3% credit card processing fee.
Search Ranking: To rank higher in search results, ensure your listing has a detailed description and high-quality photos. Both platforms consider factors like allowing Instant Book, quick response times, and low cancellation rates.
Superhost Status: Airbnb rewards hosts with Superhost status for maintaining good standing, which adds credibility to your listing.
Listing Process:
- Airbnb guides you through a step-by-step process to register your property.
- Vrbo requires a call to the listing team if you are also listed on another travel site, but the process is simple if you are not.
Calendar Syncing: Both platforms allow you to sync your calendar with other rental sites to avoid double bookings. Airbnb also enables syncing between multiple listings.
Pricing: Airbnb offers Smart Pricing, which adjusts your nightly rate based on demand, seasonality, local events, and midweek vs. weekend dates.
Insurance: Insurance coverage varies based on how you conduct your rental activities. Commercial policies are suitable for frequent hosts with significant income, while residential policies are ideal for renting out spare bedrooms. It’s important to inform your homeowners insurer about your short-term rental activities to avoid risks.
Party Houses: Airbnb has cracked down on party houses, banning all parties and events in homes listed on its platform. Hosts can take measures like having a property manager, security cameras, and clear house rules to prevent parties.
Cleaning Protocols: In response to the pandemic, Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com have implemented new cleaning protocols. Airbnb’s policy includes a 24-hour waiting period between guests, which may affect your booking strategy.
Conclusion: Choosing the right platform depends on your circumstances. Airbnb is better for renting rooms within your home, while Vrbo is suitable for entire property rentals. Consider factors like fees, insurance, and cleaning protocols when making your decision.