Is it worth using VRBO in addition to AIRBNB?

Question

Exploring new platforms to increase bookings, how about using VRBO, currently my properties are on airbnb and most of my bookings come from there.  I read you!

Collin Hays · Answer

We only use VRBO and have no problems with our calendars.  They have a dozen or more "channels" out there of different brand names.  We will not use Airbnb, due to their anti-owner policies.

Bruce Woodruff · Answer

@Collin H. is right. ABnB is a pretty bad platform in my experiences. Hard to get any kind of support, and when you do, you can barely understand them. During Covid, they were totally authoritarian in their approach to the whole thing.

VRBO is a totally different animal with a more Host friendly attitude. You may have noticed their advertising ramping up over the past year or so, I think they are making a push to regain their market (they were the original hosting platform for hosting for 13 yrs)

Definitely use both though and wean off of ABnB when you can.

Andrew Steffens · Answer

You 100% should use VRBO.  Their performance for us varies depending on the property however.  Our more upscale coastal properties do significantly better on VRBO than the smaller, more basic, urban ones.  Demographically the smaller urban units attract younger guests whereas the larger coastal properties attract multi generational families.  Either way, you want as much exposure for your properties as possible.  We are on 15 different channels!

John Underwood · Answer

I get the bulk of my bookings from Vrbo but I still keep Airbnb active just to get a few bookings per year from them.

Michael Baum · Answer

I do not use Booking.com. Way to many stories about not getting paid for months, owners having to eat days or weeks due to guest cancellations etc.

Not worth the potential hassle.

James Carlson · Answer

@Estrella Carolina Mckinney

Most of our Colorado STR clients do both. No reason not to broaden your reach. With the syncing of calendars on both sites, it's pretty seamless.

Robert Finn · Answer

VRBO and Booking.com are a good compliment to Airbnb! VRBO has kept me booked during the offseason with travelers needing mid term stays, you can also customize minimum nights to attract those type of bookings.

John Mausteller · Answer

I started using VRBO in addtion to Airbnb last year and I think it definitely helps!  The main reason being the two platforms attract very different audiences.  Most potential renters who are searching are not on both VRBO and Airbnb.   All in all, your property(ies) will get in front of more people if you use both platforms.

Sarah Kensinger · Answer

Get your property on as many sites as you can! The more eyes on your property the better!

James Woods · Answer

I would think diversification of channels is your best option. Take care to synchronize your calendars. You may also want to centralize your guest communication.

Is it worth using VRBO in addition to AIRBNB?

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