If you are a vacation rental owner looking to advertise your property, there are numerous listing sites available. However, not all listing sites are created equal and it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular listing sites and help you decide which one is best for you.
Airbnb
Airbnb is perhaps one of the most well-known vacation rental websites out there. It has a massive user base and is available in over 190 countries.
The platform allows property owners to list their properties and set their prices. Airbnb also offers hosts the option to rent out individual rooms in their property or even couches for travelers on a budget. However, Airbnb does have some downsides, such as high fees for both hosts and guests.
VRBO
VRBO, or Vacation Rentals by Owner, was founded in 1996 and is now owned by Expedia Group. The platform offers a range of vacation rentals from apartments to villas and even castles!
VRBO charges an annual subscription fee to property owners but doesn’t charge any commission on bookings made through its website. This makes it an attractive option for vacation rental owners looking to maximize their profits.
HomeAway
HomeAway is another popular vacation rental website that’s owned by Expedia Group. It operates similarly to VRBO but also offers payment protection for both guests and hosts in case of cancellations or other issues. HomeAway charges property owners an annual subscription fee and takes a commission on bookings made through its website.
Pros and Cons
- Airbnb: Pros – Large user base; Cons – High fees
- VRBO: Pros – No commission on bookings; Cons – Annual subscription fee
- HomeAway: Pros – Payment protection; Cons – Annual subscription fee and commission on bookings
Conclusion
Ultimately, the best listing site for you will depend on your specific needs as a vacation rental owner. If you’re looking for a large user base with high visibility, Airbnb might be your best bet.
However, if you’re looking to maximize your profits and avoid commission fees, VRBO could be a better option. HomeAway offers payment protection for both guests and hosts but comes with an annual subscription fee and commission on bookings. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons of each platform before making your decision.