If you’re a short-term rental host or thinking about becoming one, chances are you’ve wondered, “Should I list my property on Airbnb, VRBO, or both?” In this guide, We’ll break down the main differences in simple terms to help you decide which platform is right for your property—or if listing on both makes sense.
Who’s Your Audience?
The first thing to consider is who your guests are.
Airbnb: It’s perfect for all kinds of travelers—solo adventurers, couples, business travelers, and even big groups. Airbnb also shines when it comes to quirky or unique properties like treehouses, yurts, or city lofts.
Example: If you have a cozy downtown apartment or a unique stay like a converted bus, Airbnb is a great fit.
VRBO: VRBO caters more to families and groups looking for entire homes. It’s ideal for vacation properties like beach houses, mountain cabins, or spacious suburban homes.
Example: Got a large lakefront home with multiple bedrooms? VRBO is probably your audience.
What Type of Property Do You Have?
The platforms differ in what types of properties they highlight.
Airbnb: You can list shared spaces, private rooms, or entire homes. If you’re renting out a spare room or have something unconventional, Airbnb works.
VRBO: Only entire homes are allowed. This makes it better suited for hosts offering vacation rentals meant for groups or families.
How Much Are the Fees?
Airbnb: The percentage typically falls between 5% and 15% of the total reservation cost, but it will vary depending on the location of your listings, the fee structure you choose, and a few other factors.
VRBO: You can choose between paying per booking 8% (The booking fee consists of a 3% payment processing and a 5% commission fee. Fees don’t apply to Property Damage Protection or Trip Cancellation Protection (Travel Insurance) or an annual subscription fee of $499. The subscription makes sense if you rent out your property often.
How Do They Market Your Property?
Both platforms have tools to help your listing get noticed, but they work a little differently.
Airbnb: It rewards active hosts with frequent bookings, great reviews, and fast responses. If you qualify as a Superhost, your listing gets a visibility boost.
VRBO: It focuses on travelers searching for vacation destinations, making it great for properties in tourist hotspots.
Guest Expectations
Knowing what guests expect can help you choose the platform that aligns with your hosting style.
Airbnb Guests: They love unique stays and personal touches like welcome notes or local tips. If you enjoy creating a memorable experience, Airbnb might suit you better.
VRBO Guests: They’re more focused on comfort and practicality—think fully-equipped kitchens, big living spaces, and privacy. If your property is all about convenience, VRBO wins.
Can You Use Both Platforms?
Absolutely! If your property appeals to both audiences, listing on Airbnb and VRBO can help you maximize bookings. Just be prepared to stay organized.
Tips for Managing Both Platforms:
Use tools like channel managers to sync calendars and avoid double bookings.
Customize your listing to suit each platform’s audience.
Which Platform Is Best for You?
It comes down to your property and hosting style:
If you have a unique or smaller space, Airbnb might be a better fit.
If you’re renting a vacation home to families or groups, VRBO could be your go-to.
And if your property ticks both boxes, why not try both?
Final Thoughts
Both Airbnb and VRBO have their strengths. The best choice depends on your property, your goals, and the type of guests you want to attract. With the right approach, you can thrive on either platform—or both!
Need help managing your listings or optimizing for multiple platforms? At Revolvio, we specialize in dynamic pricing, listing optimization, and taking the stress out of hosting. Contact us today and let’s make your property shine!