Updated: 28 Feb 2025
15 Min Read

VRBO Host Requirements & Rules 2025

Financial Technology, Real Estate Investing, and Property Management, Accounting and Tax, Finance Saad Dar

As of 2024, the global vacation rental market has reached $134.51 billion, with Vrbo showing an impressive 18.2% year-over-year revenue increase. With a 21% market share, Vrbo is set to grow alongside the short-term rental market, which is projected to see a 4.9% increase in demand and a 2.9% rise in revenue per available room (RevPAR) in 2025.

For property owners considering Vrbo or current hosts seeking to optimize short-term rental investments, understanding the platform’s requirements is essential for capitalizing on the market’s growth potential.

Let’s explore everything you need to know about Vrbo host requirements, rules, and local regulations to help you maximize your rental income.

Key takeaways

Vrbo hosts earn an average of $26,000 per year, with Premier Hosts seeing 8% higher RevPAR and higher ADRs ($395 vs. $367 for non-Premier Hosts).
Vrbo host requirements include meeting local zoning laws, permits, and HOA rules, with stricter regulations in cities like Los Angeles and Austin. Proof of ownership or authorization is required to list a property.
Hosts should adjust rates based on regional ADRs ($200-$400/night) and seasonal occupancy trends. Using dynamic pricing maximizes revenue.
Hosts can set refundable or non-refundable deposits for damages, cleaning, pets, and lost keys. A $500 refundable security deposit is common, while a $50 non-refundable damage waiver covers minor repairs.
Vrbo offers five cancellation options with refunds based on the notice period. As of 2025, hosts must provide check-in details 72+ hours before arrival and respond to guests within 1 hour on check-in day.

What is a Vrbo host?

A Vrbo host is someone who lists a property for rent on Vrbo, a popular vacation rental site. The platform has over 2 million properties listed across 190 countries (630,000 in the U.S.), with hosts earning an average of $26,000 per year.

Hosts who maintain a high level of guest satisfaction and book at least 60 nights can earn a “Premier Host” badge. Vrbo Premier Hosts generally see higher average daily rates (ADRs) and RevPARs compared to non-Premier Hosts. From January 2023 to January 2024, the ADR for Premier Host listings was $395 and $367 for non-Premier Hosts.

Charging higher ADRs also means higher RevPARs for Premier Hosts. RevPARs for Premier Host listings are 8% higher than non-Premier Host listings.

How to become a Vrbo host: Step-by-step guide

Follow these steps to meet Vrbo requirements, optimize your listings, and increase bookings:

1. Assess your property

Before diving into hosting, evaluate if your property meets the key Vrbo host requirements.

Local compliance: Check local zoning laws, permits, and tax regulations to ensure you’re legally eligible to rent. Some cities, like Los Angeles, require short-term rental permits for operation.
Property type: Confirm your property type (house, condo, or unique space) is accepted by Vrbo. Properties like single-family homes or unique spaces such as cabins must meet Vrbo listing requirements, including proper safety measures and amenities.
Market demand: Research local demand and competition to gauge your rental potential. Use online platforms to check data on occupancy rates and average nightly rates in your area. For example, properties in tourist destinations like Orlando often see higher seasonal demand.
Revenue estimation: Use Baselane’s rental property ROI calculator to estimate your property’s earning potential by analyzing rental income, expenses, loan details, and key metrics like cash flow and cap rate. This helps determine profitability before listing on Vrbo.

Read our guide on common Vrbo and Airbnb expenses to get a more accurate estimate of potential returns.

2. Prepare your property

To attract bookings, your property should stand out while meeting Vrbo’s listing requirements.

Safety standards: Install essentials like smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and fire extinguishers. For added security, consider installing smart locks and outdoor cameras.
Upgrade amenities: Provide reliable Wi-Fi, fresh linens, toiletries, and fully equipped kitchens. Homes with modern amenities, such as a washer and dryer, gym, and pool or hot tub, can increase RevPAR up to 50% in certain areas.
Photography: High-quality photos significantly impact bookings. Properties with professional photos receive 118% more views. Capture bright, wide shots of key areas like living spaces, bedrooms, and outdoor amenities to appeal to Vrbo’s younger audience aged 18-24.
Inventory list: Maintain a detailed inventory of appliances, furnishings, and supplies. This helps you stay organized and ensures guests have what they need for a comfortable experience.

3. Create a Vrbo account

Creating your account is the first step to listing your property.

Documents needed: Have property ownership proof, tax information, and a government-issued ID ready.
Payment preferences: Decide between an annual subscription ($699) or pay-per-booking (8% fee).
Secure your profile: Enable two-factor authentication to protect your account.

4. List your property

The success of your Vrbo listing depends on clarity and accuracy.

Property description: Write a compelling title (minimum 20 characters) and detailed description (400+ characters).
Photos: Include high-resolution images that meet Vrbo photo requirements for clarity and aspect ratio.
Amenities & policies: Clearly specify amenities, house rules, and nearby local attractions.

5. Market your listing

A well-maintained listing ensures a steady stream of bookings.

Promotion: Vacation rentals with social media marketing have a 37% higher booking rate than properties without an active presence.
Dynamic pricing: Using local market insights, adjust your rates for peak and off-peak seasons. For example, increase rates during holiday weekends in Orlando or ski season in Aspen and lower them during slower mid-week periods.
Guest communication: Respond to inquiries within 24 hours to build trust. For instance, provide a clear check-in guide with door code instructions and nearby parking tips to streamline their arrival process.

6. Host guests

Delivering a seamless guest experience ensures positive reviews and repeat bookings.

Welcome package: Include essentials like Wi-Fi passwords, a house manual, and local recommendations.
Cleanliness standards: Ensure the property is cleaned thoroughly between stays to meet Vrbo cleaning requirements.
24/7 customer support: Provide a contact number for any urgent issues during a guest’s stay.

7. Manage your rental business

Consistently managing your rental operations is key to long-term success.

Track expenses: Keep track of your rental income and expenses for accurate tax reporting. The best bank accounts for Airbnb and Vrbo should automate these tasks. With Baselane’s integrated banking and bookkeeping, you can view your cash flow in real-time and instantly generate reports without any extra admin work.
Analyze performance metrics: Monitor occupancy rates, average daily rates, and reviews to adjust your pricing strategy. For example, if your property in Miami sees low occupancy during September, consider offering a discounted rate or adding a free night to attract more bookings.
Schedule maintenance: Plan regular inspections, deep cleans, and seasonal repairs. For instance, schedule HVAC servicing before summer in warmer regions or gutter cleaning and roof checks before winter in colder areas like Denver.

Vrbo listing requirements

Vrbo hosts in 2025 must meet legal, safety, and listing standards, including permits, property compliance, and guest-ready amenities. Let’s take a look at the requirements below:

Age requirements

Vrbo requires all hosts to be at least 18 years old.

Identity verification: Hosts must submit a government-issued ID during account setup to confirm their age and eligibility.
Local rules: Some regions may impose stricter age-related restrictions for hosting. Check with your local authorities to avoid violations.

Ownership or management authorization

To list a property on Vrbo, you must:

Own the property: You must be the legal owner or have explicit permission to rent out the property. During the listing process, Vrbo may request proof, such as a deed or management agreement.
Check HOA rules: Short-term rental restrictions vary by state and HOA policies. In California, HOAs can prohibit rentals under 31 days, while Florida requires rental limits to be clearly stated in governing documents. Texas doesn’t have statewide short-term rental restrictions, but HOAs and local municipalities can enforce their own rules, so always check your community’s guidelines before listing.
Provide documentation: Be ready to share proof of ownership or a management agreement during account setup. Commonly accepted documents include purchase agreements, utility bills, or management contracts.

Property information

Accuracy is key when listing a property. Here’s what you need:

Specific details: Include accurate details about the property, such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, guest capacity, property type (e.g., house, condo, cabin), and amenities (e.g., pool, Wi-Fi, kitchen facilities).
Property description: Highlight your property’s best features, such as proximity to attractions, unique amenities like a private pool, or family-friendly layouts.
Location accuracy: Provide the exact location or general area to help guests plan their stay.

Tip: Avoid generic phrases, such as “a cozy home near the beach.” Instead, write “a two-bedroom home just 5 minutes from Miami Beach, with a fully equipped kitchen, outdoor grill, and free parking.”

Financial and payment setup

To meet Vrbo’s financial requirements:

Secure payments: Use Vrbo’s secure payment platform for the booking process.
Tax setup: Configure your account to collect applicable taxes, like local and state occupancy taxes. For instance, a 6% state hotel occupancy tax in Texas is automatically collected for eligible bookings.
Banking details: Provide banking information for direct deposits from bookings (usually 1-2 days after check-in). You can add Baselane banking as a payment method to automatically categorize transactions by property and type for a clear view of your cash flow.

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Pricing and availability

Understanding local market trends ensures your pricing is competitive and appealing.

Competitive pricing

Set nightly rates based on market research. Consider your property type, where it’s located, and average daily rates in the area.

Average daily rates by region

Midwest: $203/night
Northeast: $252/night
Southeast: $200-275/night
West Coast: $300-400/night
Mountain Region: $250-325/night

Revenue potential by property type and location

Entire homes:

Urban locations: $26,024 annually
Resort areas: $83,000 annually
Rural settings: $42,751 annually

Apartments:

City centers: $26,600 annually
Resort locations: $94,000 annually

Unique properties:

Luxury homes: $60,000-$80,000+ annually
Waterfront properties: $100,000 annually

Seasonal pricing

Adjust rates for peak and off-peak seasons as needed. The average occupancy rate on Airbnb and Vrbo in the U.S. over the past 12 months is 54.3%, a solid benchmark for short-term rental (STR) hosts to gauge performance.

Updated calendar

A well-maintained calendar avoids double bookings and improves your visibility on Vrbo.

Block dates: Reserve dates for personal use or maintenance.
Advance booking options: Set how far in advance guests can book.
Seasonal availability: Adjust minimum stays based on peak seasons or events.

House rules

Clear rules set expectations and reduce misunderstandings with guests.

Standard policies: Outline rules for pets, smoking, noise levels, and guest limits.
Damage protocols: Specify security deposit terms and explain how damages will be handled.
Location-specific requirements: Rules should be tailored to the property’s location to ensure compliance and enhance guest experience:
- Urban properties:
  - Must comply with local noise ordinances, especially in high-density areas.
  - Outline parking arrangements, including street parking restrictions or garage access.
  - Implement security measures, such as keyless entry or concierge check-in.
  - Provide building access protocols for gated communities or apartment complexes.
- Suburban properties:
  - Adhere to neighborhood guidelines, including quiet hours and HOA rules.
  - Detail waste management systems, such as trash pickup days and recycling rules.
  - Establish yard maintenance standards, ensuring landscaping stays within local requirements.
  - Clarify guest parking provisions, particularly for driveways and shared spaces.
- Rural properties:
  - Include access road maintenance instructions, especially if dirt or private roads require upkeep.
  - Provide information on emergency service availability, as response times may be longer.
  - List utility backup systems, such as generators or well water systems, in case of power outages.
  - Offer wildlife safety measures, particularly in areas near forests or national parks.

Tip: Provide specific examples of rules, like “No pets allowed, except service animals,” or “Quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM.” For smoking, clearly state areas where it’s prohibited or allowed, such as “Smoking is not permitted indoors but is allowed on the balcony.” Use concise language to avoid ambiguity and prevent disputes.

Essential amenities

All amenities in your listing should be available and functional for guests. Include the essentials (internet, television, kitchen appliances) and other amenities that help your property stand out. According to AirDNA, these are the top amenities proven to increase revenue:

Pool: Houses with pools provide an average RevPAR increase of 37% and up to 59% in urban areas.
Hot tub: RevPARs for properties with hot tubs are 50% higher in large cities and 30% higher in rural areas.
Washer and dryer: Convenient washer and dryer sets provide the highest RevPAR increase in coastal destinations, averaging around 25%.
Gym: Resorts and coastal properties with gyms see a 26% higher RevPAR boost than mountain (9%) and rural (18%) areas.
Kitchen: RevPARs for kitchens are highest in large suburban cities (+25%) and urban cities (+16%).
Wi-Fi and TV: Small rural cities see the biggest RevPAR boosts for TV (+11%) and Wi-Fi (+18%).
Pet-friendly: Allowing pets doesn’t boost revenue much, but it can increase occupancy rates by about 3%.

Tip: Check out comparable properties when deciding which amenities make sense for your location and target market (e.g., short-term business travelers or families). For example, fireplaces can be a major attraction in chilly mountain regions, but they may not have the same appeal in tropical destinations. Look at local occupancy rates, ADRs, and RevPARs to see what’s paying off for your competitors.

Cancellation and refund policies

Vrbo offers hosts several cancellation policy options to manage guest bookings:

Relaxed: 100% refund for cancellations 14+ days before check-in; 50% refund for 7-14 days.
Moderate: 100% refund for cancellations 30+ days before check-in; 50% refunds for 14-30 days.
Firm: 100% refund for cancellations 60+ days before check-in; 50% refund for 30-60 days.
Strict: 100% refund or cancellations 60+ days before check-in; no refund within 60 days.
No refund: No refunds are issued for cancellations at any time.

Clearly communicate cancellation and refund policies in your listings to ensure guests are well-informed before booking. Refunds are processed according to the selected cancellation policy. If a guest cancels within the terms that allow for a full refund, the service fee paid at booking is also refunded.

Guest communication

Effective January 1, 2025, Vrbo has implemented specific guest communication policies to enhance the hosting experience:

Check-in instructions: Hosts must provide access details at least 72 hours before check-in.

Response time requirements:

- 5+ days before stay: Reply within 24 hours.
- 1-4 days before stay: Reply within 12 hours.
- Check-in day & during stay (8 AM – 9 PM property time): Reply within 1 hour.

Performance tracking: Vrbo monitors response rate, response time, and booking request acceptance to assess host communication.

Maintenance and upkeep

Meeting Vrbo cleaning requirements and maintenance standards can significantly impact reviews and repeat bookings.

Book regular inspections: Check the property frequently to ensure everything is in working order.
Follow cleanliness standards: Between every guest, deep-clean all surfaces, launder all linens, empty trash bins, and restock essentials like soap and toilet paper. Offer mid-stay cleaning for bookings over a week.
Stock cleaning supplies: Provide guests with extra cleaning supplies, like disinfectant wipes or a vacuum.
Use cleaning services: Professional cleaners can save time and ensure high standards, leading to better reviews. Cleaning fees vary by size and location—the U.S. average is $51 for a one-bedroom and $166 for larger homes in urban areas.

State-specific requirements: Some states have specific regulations for vacation rentals, covering cleaning, environmental standards, and pest control.

- Florida cleaning standards: Vacation rentals must follow state sanitation guidelines under 6lC-3.001, which outline cleaning and disinfection standards. Many counties also require hosts to comply with CDC-recommended sanitation protocols.
- California environmental regulations: Environmental regulations vary by county. For example, Monterey County requires vacation rentals to meet environmental impact standards, including waste management and water conservation.
- Hawaii pest control requirements: Due to the tropical climate, hosts must follow strict pest control requirements, including regular fumigation for properties in high-risk areas. Many counties enforce quarterly pest inspections to prevent infestations.

Vrbo photo requirements

Photos are the first thing guests notice. Meeting Vrbo photo requirements can significantly increase bookings.

Minimum photos: Upload at least 10 high-resolution images with a minimum size of 3840 x 2160 pixels. Properties with at least 10 professional-quality photos receive 20% more bookings on average.
Standard format: All photos must be in landscape orientation (3:2 aspect ratio) for optimal display and free from any watermarks, text, or logos.
Realistic representation: Avoid heavy editing or filters that misrepresent the property’s true appearance.
Image composition: Take wide-angle photos during the day for bright and inviting images of spaces that are clean and clutter-free.

How much does Vrbo charge hosts?

Vrbo charges various fees for listing, booking management, and guest support. These costs vary depending on the pricing model you choose:

Pay-per-booking: Hosts pay a fee of 8% per booking, including a 5% commission and a 3% payment processing fee.
Subscription model: For $699 annually, you can bypass individual booking fees, which is ideal for high-volume rentals.

Vrbo host fees vs Airbnb host fees

Vrbo and Airbnb have distinct fee structures that cater to different hosting needs. Vrbo offers a pay-per-booking model with an 8% fee, which includes a 5% commission and a 3% payment processing charge or an annual subscription fee of $699 for unlimited bookings, ideal for high-volume hosts.

In contrast, Airbnb typically charges a split fee where hosts pay 3% and guests pay up to 14.2%, or a host-only fee of 14%-16% in some cases.

What are the Vrbo deposit requirements?

Vrbo allows hosts to set different types of deposits to protect against potential damages and ensure policy compliance. These deposits vary based on the host’s preferences and rental policies, offering flexibility in how they are applied.

Here are some common Vrbo deposit options:

Refundable security deposit: You can collect a deposit upfront, which is returned to the guest after checkout if no damages are reported. Set a $500 refundable deposit, returned within 7 days if no damages occur.
Damage waiver fee: Some hosts prefer this non-refundable fee to cover minor repairs, eliminating the need for direct refunds. Charge a $50 non-refundable fee per booking to cover minor repairs like scratches or stains.
Booking deposit: A portion of the total rental amount paid upfront to secure the reservation. This is typically a percentage of the total booking cost and is often non-refundable.

Pet deposit: An additional fee to cover potential damages or extra cleaning required due to pets. This can be a refundable deposit or a non-refundable fee, with amounts varying based on the host’s policy.

Cleaning deposit: A fee to cover the cost of cleaning the property after a guest’s stay. This is usually a non-refundable fee added to the booking total.
Key or access deposit: A refundable fee to cover the cost of lost keys or access devices. The host determines the amount and is refunded if all keys or devices are returned.

Vrbo insurance requirements explained

On average, short-term rental insurance costs between $600 and $2,000 per year, depending on location, property type, and coverage limits.

Regional insurance costs:

Coastal properties: Insurance premiums are typically higher due to hurricane and flood risks. For example, the average annual cost in Florida is approximately $1,722. Check out our guide on the most profitable cities in Florida for Airbnb investment and Vrbo rentals.
Urban properties: Insurance costs in urban areas can vary. California’s average annual premium is about $896, which is lower than the national average.
Mountain properties: Properties in mountainous regions may face risks like wildfires, affecting insurance costs. In Colorado, the average annual premium is around $1,599.

Types of insurance for Vrbo hosts

Homeowner’s insurance: While most homeowner’s insurance policies provide basic coverage, they typically exclude short-term rental activities. Check with your provider to confirm your policy includes vacation rental coverage.
Vacation rental insurance: Covers guest-related damage, liability claims, and income loss due to unforeseen circumstances. Hosts can apply for coverage through Vrbo’s partner, Proper Insurance, or compare policies and rates of insurance for Airbnb property owners and Vrbo properties from other providers.

Damage protection: Vrbo offers Accidental Damage Protection, covering $1,500 to $5,000 in unintentional guest damages, with plans ranging from $59 to $119.

Liability coverage: Protects you from legal claims if a guest is injured on your property. Vrbo offers $1M liability coverage for eligible bookings, but additional coverage is recommended.
Loss of income protection: Covers revenue loss if your property becomes temporarily uninhabitable due to damages.

Vrbo safety requirements checklist

Ensuring safety isn’t just a good practice—it’s a requirement. Guests expect a secure and worry-free stay, so meeting Vrbo safety standards is essential.

Basic safety checklist:
- Install functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in all key areas.
- Provide a fire extinguisher, ideally in the kitchen or near grilling areas.
- Ensure handrails are sturdy, especially on stairs and balconies.
- Confirm that locks on windows and doors are in working order.
Emergency preparedness:
- Include clear emergency contact numbers.
- Provide a first-aid kit stocked with essentials.

Regional safety standards:

- Coastal Properties: Install storm shutters, secure outdoor furniture, and provide evacuation routes for hurricane-prone areas. Regularly inspect roofing and windows for wind resistance.
- Mountain properties: Supply snow shovels, ice melt, and winter safety gear. Keep walkways clear and provide local weather updates for guest safety.
- Urban properties: Install security systems, smart locks, and reinforced door/window locks. Regularly maintain security features to ensure guest protection.

State-specific requirements:

- Florida – pool safety barriers: Pools must have a 4-foot-high barrier with self-closing, self-latching gates to prevent child access.
- California – fire safety equipment: Properties must have fire extinguishers every 3,000 sq. ft., with one per floor and within 75 feet of travel distance.
- Colorado – carbon monoxide detectors: All rental properties must have CO detectors near bedrooms and in key areas to prevent poisoning.

State and city requirements for Vrbo property hosts

Hosting rules can vary significantly between states, impacting your property’s compliance and profitability.

Zoning laws: Verify that short-term rentals are permitted in your area. Some cities, like Los Angeles, require hosts to register with the city planning department and pay a fee.
Required permits: Certain states require permits for short-term rentals. In California, hosts must obtain a Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Certificate. Portland, Oregon, requires an Accessory Short-Term Rental Permit (ASTR) before operating.

State licensing: Licensing requirements for short-term rentals vary by state and city. In Florida, hosts must get a license from the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). The annual license fee is $170 for a single rental unit and $180 for 2-25 units. In New York City, hosts must register with the Mayor’s Office of Special Enforcement (OSE) and pay a $145 non-refundable application fee.

Key regulations in popular states for Vrbo hosts

California: Many cities in California, including Los Angeles and San Francisco, impose strict short-term rental rules. Hosts must register their property, pay transient occupancy taxes, and follow zoning laws. Noise restrictions and parking rules are also common in popular areas.
Texas: Texas is host-friendly but requires compliance with local regulations. Cities like Austin mandate a short-term rental license, occupancy limits, and adherence to Vrbo cleaning requirements. Check city-specific guidelines for details.
New York: Hosting in New York City comes with unique challenges. Rentals of less than 30 days are often prohibited unless the host is present during the stay. Properties must also meet strict fire safety and building codes.
Colorado: Colorado’s popular ski towns like Aspen and Breckenridge require hosts to obtain a permit and pay local taxes. Noise ordinances and trash management policies are strictly enforced.

Vrbo host requirements for taxes

Vrbo hosts must keep detailed records of rental income, expenses, and guest stays for tax compliance.

Tax collection and remittance: Vrbo collects and remits lodging taxes in some locations, but hosts are responsible for any additional taxes not covered. Hosts must register with local tax authorities, collect taxes from guests, and remit them accordingly.
Income reporting: The IRS requires hosts to report all rental income, even if they do not receive a 1099-K tax form. Vrbo issues 1099-K forms to hosts earning $20,000+ and completing 200+ transactions annually, though some states, like Massachusetts and Vermont, require reporting for earnings above $600.
Record-keeping requirements: The IRS recommends keeping records for at least three years. Some states have stricter rules—South Carolina requires hosts to retain a guest register for five years, while Wisconsin mandates licenses for rentals exceeding 10 days annually and potential health inspections.

Bottom line

While listing on Vrbo helps you make money, it doesn’t track it. Without knowing your everyday expenses, you won’t have a clear picture of your profits.

Baselane banking syncs with Vrbo, Airbnb, and other vacation rental platforms to give you complete financial clarity and control. Keep your money organized with unlimited accounts per property and virtual debit cards while earning up to 3.35% APY² and 1% cash back³. Bookkeeping is built right in to automate all your income and expense tracking, financial reporting, and tax packages.

Ready to maximize your short-term rental returns? Get started for free!

FAQs

What does Premier Host mean on Vrbo?

A Vrbo Premier Host is a top-rated host who provides excellent guest experiences, high-quality listings, and consistent booking performance.

To achieve Premier Host status, all listings in your account must meet the following requirements:

An average review rating of 4.4 or higher (shown in your dashboard)
A booking acceptance rate of 95% or higher
An owner-initiated cancellation rate of 1% or lower
Have 3 or more Vrbo reviews
Have at least 5 bookings or 60 booked nights

How to host on Vrbo?

To host on Vrbo, create an account, list your property with details like location, amenities, and photos, and follow Vrbo host requirements, including compliance with local laws and rental regulations. You’ll also need to set your rates, availability, and policies for cancellations and refunds.

Just starting out? Read our guide on how to manage a vacation rental property.

How much do Vrbo hosts make?

Earnings on Vrbo depend on factors like location, property type, and season. Vrbo properties are usually larger, resulting in higher ADRs. While about half of Airbnb and Vrbo properties list for $100-299, ADRs of $300+ are more common on Vrbo. On average, Vrbo hosts earn $26,000 per year.

Read our blog on short-term vs long-term rental investments to see which strategy is right for you.

What is a host fee on Vrbo?

Vrbo host fees are service charges deducted from your earnings. The standard Vrbo host fee for a subscription is $699 per year or a percentage of each booking, including:

Commission fee: 5% of the rental amount and any additional fees you charge the traveler (such as cleaning, pet, and boat fees).
Processing fee: 3% of the total payment amount you receive from your guest, including taxes and refundable damage deposits.

Taxes and security deposits are subject to a 3% payment processing fee but not a 5% commission fee. Where VAT applies, VAT is charged in addition to the 5% commission.

Why are Vrbo host fees so high?

Vrbo host fees may seem high when paying a percentage of each booking because properties are often priced higher than other vocational rental sites. In the U.S., 98% of Vrbo listings are priced over $100 a night compared to 84% of Airbnb listings. Vrbo has more presence in expensive coastal and mountain destination markets, contributing to higher ADRs.

Who pays the host fee on Vrbo?

Hosts typically pay the host fee on Vrbo. However, this fee can be factored into your listing price to ensure your earnings remain unaffected. If you do this, make sure your pricing is still competitive. Raising prices above market or seasonal rates can negatively impact your bookings and end up reducing your earnings.

What are the Vrbo requirements to rent a property?

To rent on Vrbo, you need to provide accurate property details, meet Vrbo age requirements, and comply with Vrbo’s rules for owners, including legal and safety standards. Here are some standard requirements to list on Vrbo:

Booking guidelines: Uphold booking terms and maintain fair relocation, cancellation, and refund practices.
Vrbo-exclusive bookings: All bookings must be through Vrbo; outside bookings are not allowed.
Property upkeep: Provide safe, clean, and accessible environments.
Guest accommodations: Hosts must accommodate guests with service animals.
Safety requirements: Ensure the property meets local building codes and safety requirements, including devices (e.g., smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors).
Accurate descriptions: Describe only the advertised unit—avoid referencing additional or shared units.
Functional amenities: Ensure key amenities are functional for guests (e.g., pool, Wi-Fi, AC).

Timely responses: Communicate promptly, clearly, and professionally.
Updated calendar: Your calendar should always be kept accurate.
Check-in instructions: Provide clear arrival details and follow Vrbo’s Host Communication Policy.

Reasonable fees: Set transparent, reasonable, and competitive pricing in accordance with local regulations.
Fee disclosure: Enter all fees (e.g., cleaning, taxes, service fees) in the Vrbo Dashboard to show in the guest price breakdown.
Rate limits: The total amount of mandatory fees must not exceed the nightly rate amount.

What are the Vrbo photo requirements?

Vrbo photo requirements include set standards for photo quantity, resolution, and orientation.

Standard Vrbo photo requirements:

Minimum photos: Listings must have at least 6 property photos to avoid suspension. Multi-unit properties need specific photos:
- 1 building exterior photo
- 1 interior or lobby photo
- 3 guestroom photos
- 1 bathroom photo
Minimum resolution: 1024 x 683 pixels
Maximum file size: 20 MB
Supported formats: JPEG/JPG, PNG, or GIF
Photo orientation: Horizontal (landscape) display

Make sure your photos don’t contain:

A logo or border
Text of any kind, such as a URL or contact information
Something other than a picture, such as a document, certificate, illustration, or poster
Copyrighted material
A close-up of a plant
A license plate
A collage of multiple photos or multiple listings

Can you host on Airbnb and Vrbo?

Yes, you can host on both Airbnb and Vrbo. Many hosts list their properties on multiple platforms to maximize visibility and bookings. As of 2024, 28% of U.S. short-term rental listings are cross-listed on multiple platforms:

Resort areas: 40% of mountain and lakefront rentals are cross-listed.
Large properties: 39% of properties with 4+ bedrooms are cross-listed.
Urban areas: Airbnb leads in cities, but 17% of studios and single-bedroom units are cross-listed.

How much does it cost to host on Vrbo?

The cost to host on Vrbo depends on your subscription plan, commission rates, and whether or not you use the platform’s additional services. Vrbo host fees include a service fee of 8% of the booking amount or an annual subscription fee of $699. Additional costs like cleaning, maintenance, and insurance should also be considered.

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