STR News.

A Vrbo guest faced an access issue with their rental, highlighting the importance of swift support. VrboCare intervened, resolving the lock-out problem. This incident underscores the need for robust guest support systems and clear communication channels for hosts and guests.

A traveler faced an inaccessible VRBO rental, highlighting the importance of robust support. VRBOCare intervened to resolve the issue, showcasing the value of platform-provided assistance in challenging guest situations.

OwnerRez rolled out significant May updates: Passkey sign-in, a redesigned guest payment form, and new listing discounts for Airbnb/Vrbo (20%, auto-disabled). Notifications for OwnerRez-powered locks (Schlage, igloohome, Hubitat) are now available, including low battery alerts.

May's Lodgify Lowdown highlights major shifts: TikTok enters vacation rentals, Uber adds Vrbo, Airbnb launches 220+ updates including car rentals & AI tools. EU data rules are live, impacting European hosts.

Vrbo offers hosts three customer service channels: a 24/7 phone line, an in-product live chat, and a self-serve Help Center. There is no public support email. Use phone for urgent issues like double bookings or fraud, chat for routine account questions, and the Help Center for policy lookups.

Vrbo does not perform thorough background checks on guests, relying instead on basic verification like email and phone. Hosts must build their own screening processes to protect their properties. Implementing request-to-book mode, asking pre-booking questions, requiring signed rental agreements, and using third-party screening tools are all recommended to mitigate risks. Data shows 77% of hosts do not collect a damage deposit, which increases risk exposure.

Syncing Airbnb and Vrbo calendars is essential to avoid double bookings, but iCal syncing has limitations. This article reveals how to sync using iCal links and channel managers, emphasizing the need for two-way syncing. Channel managers offer real-time updates and more comprehensive functionality for those with multiple listings, streamlining operations and boosting revenue.

Vrbo lacks a formal co-host program like Airbnb, offering property manager access instead. Co-hosts typically charge 10-25% of gross bookings, with responsibilities impacting the rate. Multi-property operators often benefit from a Property Management System (PMS) to streamline operations and handle tasks such as automated messaging, task routing, and calendar synchronization.

Host & Guest launched Fix+, a platform to reduce after-hours guest calls by guiding guests through troubleshooting steps for issues like heating and appliances. This service leverages AI for property-specific guidance and is designed to alleviate host burnout, ensuring only critical issues reach them. The platform integrates with Airbnb, Booking.com, and Vrbo.

A recent article from 6abc Philadelphia warns of potential booking issues on VRBO, highlighting a canceled family reunion rental. This underscores the need for hosts to understand cancellation policies and ensure clear communication with guests. Proactive strategies for managing bookings and preventing disputes are essential for a positive guest experience.

A Branson-based company has earned recognition from both Airbnb and Vrbo, indicating successful property management practices and potentially strong guest experiences. This distinction suggests the company meets high standards on both platforms, reflecting positive performance. Hosts may be interested in what strategies contribute to such achievements.

This article from Checkbook warns hosts that VRBO and Booking.com may not refund guests for fake rentals. Guests may be left with no place to stay and financial loss. It is crucial for hosts to be aware of this potential vulnerability when utilizing these platforms.

Guest screening is crucial for protecting your short-term rental from damage, fraud, and neighbor complaints, and compliance. This Hostfully article outlines how listing sites like Airbnb and Vrbo offer screening tools like ID verification and guest reviews. Hosts can also use pre-booking forms and automated messaging for stricter screening. Tailoring screening processes to your property type, and the location, and being consistent is key to reducing risk.

Vrbo introduces VrboCare, a new set of policies designed to safeguard travelers' bookings. This initiative aims to provide enhanced protection and reassurance for guests using the platform. It's a key update focusing on improving guest trust and confidence in the Vrbo booking process.

This article from WESH (VRBO platform) warns spring break travelers about potential scams in short-term rentals. It highlights red flags such as listings with no reviews, unusually low prices, or demands for off-platform communication, providing valuable insights for avoiding fraudulent bookings and protecting vacation investments.

This article from VRBO warns spring breakers to be vigilant against scams when booking stays. It highlights red flags such as unverified listings, pressure tactics from hosts, and requests for off-platform payments. Hosts should verify guests and platform communication to ensure a secure transaction, protecting their listing's reputation.

This article provides a market outlook for Short-Term Rental software from 2026-2033, including trends and insights. The report focuses on the growth drivers within the industry and provides analysis. This information is critical for hosts who want to understand the current market and make informed decisions on their STR strategy.

Expedia Group expands its partnership with Affirm, making the BNPL service exclusive for Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo. Customers booking hotels and packages can access monthly repayment plans, including interest-free options for some. This move reflects the growing trend of payment flexibility and its importance in the evolving booking journey, ultimately aiming to enhance traveler convenience.

A host is owed £2.8k by VRBO after renting their house out. This situation highlights potential payment issues on the VRBO platform, urging hosts to ensure prompt and accurate payouts. To avoid similar problems, hosts should review VRBO's payment policies and regularly check their transaction history.

A homeowner reports VRBO owes them £2.8k after renting out their house. This highlights potential payment issues and financial risks associated with the platform. Hosts should ensure they understand VRBO's payout processes and regularly monitor their earnings to avoid discrepancies. Investigate any payment delays immediately.

A recent article in The Times highlights a VRBO host's experience where they are owed £2.8k. The host rented out their house after moving in with their mother. This situation underscores the importance of clear communication with platforms like VRBO regarding payouts and potential delays.

A recent article in The Times highlights a host's experience where Vrbo owes them £2.8k. While specific details of the situation are missing from the provided text, the headline indicates a payment dispute or a delay from Vrbo. This could impact host's cash flow, highlighting the importance of understanding payment policies and communication with OTAs.

A recent article in The Times reports on a Vrbo host's delayed payment of £2.8k. The host experienced a significant delay in receiving their rental income from the platform. Hosts relying on Vrbo payments should closely monitor payouts and promptly address any discrepancies. The case highlights the importance of timely payments for hosts' financial planning.

A recent article in The Times highlights a dispute where a VRBO host is owed £2.8k. The host rented out their house after moving in with family and is now experiencing payment issues. This situation underscores the importance of understanding platform payout processes and managing finances effectively. Hosts should proactively monitor their accounts and communicate with the platform to resolve payment discrepancies promptly.