Posted Sep 15 2022, 10:04
I've been managing short term rentals through the Airbnb platform since 2019. Idecided toonly list through Airbnb vs listing on both Airbnb and VRBO as there didn't seem to be a great way to sync calendars on the two platforms at the time.
As we enter into our slower Fall months for getting bookings, I'm realizing it's probably time Irevisit only listing in one platform, so that we're maximizing as many days rented out as possible.
I would love some recommendationson the best tools for syncing calendars and making listing on both Airbnb and VRBO as seamless as possible?Any tipsfor getting set-up in VRBO would be greatly appreciated as well. I'm also open to any stories or opinions on the the pros and cons of listing on both platforms.
Thank you!
FAQs
Reach: By listing on both Airbnb and VRBO, you can reach a wider audience of potential guests and increase the chances of your property being rented.
How do I use Airbnb and Vrbo together? ›
Import into Vrbo
- Go to your Vrbo account and select the listing.
- Click Calendars in the left navigation menu, then click Reservation.
- Click the Import/Export icon and click Import Calendar.
- Name your calendar (for example, Airbnb) and choose a color.
- Paste your Airbnb calendar link.
Both Airbnb and VRBO (Homeaway) utilize the same iCal calendar format. They can be easily synced with each other and with other calendars, for example, your Google calendar.
How do I not double book Airbnb and Vrbo? ›
Use a channel manager to sync your availability
Channel managers automatically sync your availability across multiple OTAs, so if a guest makes a reservation on Airbnb at 12:00, there's no possibility of someone else going and booking through Vrbo at 12:01.
How to sync Airbnb and Vrbo rates? ›
There are two main methods to sync and update your prices on Airbnb, Vrbo and any other booking platform you may use.
- Use a channel manager. A reliable and feature-rich channel manager is essential when you use a multichannel distribution strategy. ...
- Use Hostaway Dynamic Pricing. ...
- Use a revenue management software only.
Pros of listing on Airbnb may include a larger user base and greater exposure, while cons may include higher fees and stricter cancellation policies. Pros of listing on VRBO or HomeAway may include lower fees and more flexible cancellation policies, while cons may include a smaller user base and less exposure.
Can I transfer my Airbnb listing to Vrbo? ›
Does Vrbo and Airbnb allow you to transfer your listing? In short, no. Both Airbnb and Vrbo have the same policy: Hosts can't transfer their listings, even if they sell their property. (However, you can request to transfer the guest reviews.)
What app syncs Airbnb and Vrbo? ›
Hosthub is a great application for syncing your bookings on different channels! Best service, the support team replies very quickly and efficiently.
Is Vrbo as strict as Airbnb? ›
Both Airbnb and Vrbo let the property manager set the terms of the booking for cancellations and changes. Since these policies vary from property to property, there's no way to determine which one offers more flexibility overall.
Does Airbnb have more listings than Vrbo? ›
Airbnb has more listings than Vrbo. Vrbo offers only private rentals. Both platforms offer 24/7 customer support.
You can list multiple rooms at one location by creating a separate listing for each space you have available. Each room will have its own calendar and listing page that should accurately reflect the number of beds and amenities, as well as what space will be shared with others.
How to avoid double bookings? ›
How do I avoid a double booking?
- Make sure your availability is correct and updated before making your property open and bookable.
- When you receive a booking on any platform, update your availability everywhere.
- Sync your calendars automatically with a channel manager.
Airbnb has more listings, including unique stays, and monthly users, but Vrbo has lower fees and is a part of the Expedia group which can get your listing seen by a wider audience.
What percentage do Vrbo and Airbnb take? ›
Airbnb usually charges a 3% commission rate for hosts, whereas Vrbo charges 5% or offers an annual subscription for unlimited bookings.
Why do people use Vrbo instead of Airbnb? ›
Airbnb attracts diverse travelers seeking unique stays, while Vrbo is preferred by families and groups wanting larger accommodations. Airbnb's interface is more user-friendly and community-driven, with more flexible cancellation policies and higher booking volume than Vrbo.
Do Airbnb reviews show up on Vrbo? ›
If you use both Airbnb and Vrbo, you can connect reviews from both sites. For example, if you imported your Airbnb listing, those reviews are already connected. You can connect your Vrbo reviews as well. And vice versa.
