Do You Need to Host on Vrbo? A Comprehensive Guide
Vrbo offers a lucrative opportunity for individuals looking to enter the vacation rental industry. However, becoming a host on Vrbo requires meeting specific requirements and adhering to local regulations. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Vrbo host requirements, from listing and photo specifications to safety standards and age requirements.
Understanding Local Regulations
Before diving into Vrbo-specific requirements, it’s crucial to understand and comply with local vacation rental regulations. These rules vary by location and can include registration, licensing, zoning, and tax requirements. Here’s a breakdown of common regulations:
Registration and Licensing
Many cities and counties require vacation rental hosts to register their property and obtain a license. This process often involves submitting an application, paying a fee, and meeting specific criteria, such as safety standards and occupancy limits.
Zoning Ordinances
Zoning laws may restrict short-term rentals to certain areas or prohibit them entirely in residential neighborhoods. Check your local zoning regulations to ensure your property is eligible for vacation rentals.
Tax Obligations
Many jurisdictions require hosts to collect and remit transient occupancy taxes (TOT) from guests. These taxes are typically a percentage of the rental fee and must be reported to local tax authorities.
HOA Rules
If your property is part of a homeowners’ association (HOA), review the HOA’s rules and regulations. Some HOAs prohibit short-term rentals, while others may have specific guidelines you must follow.
Safety and Health Codes
Short-term rentals are often subject to building safety, health, and parking regulations. For example, your property may need to meet fire safety standards or provide a minimum number of parking spaces for guests.
To ensure compliance, research your local regulations by visiting government websites, contacting local authorities, or consulting with a legal professional. Staying informed will help you avoid penalties and build a successful vacation rental business.
Vrbo Listing Requirements
Once you’ve confirmed that your property complies with local regulations, the next step is to create a listing on Vrbo. The platform provides a step-by-step guide to help you through the process, but here are the key requirements and best practices to keep in mind:
Accuracy
Your listing must provide an honest and accurate portrayal of your rental property. Misleading or false information can lead to negative reviews and potential penalties.
Location
Provide the exact location of your property, including the address and latitude/longitude coordinates. This helps travelers find your property easily and ensures transparency.
Originality
Do not copy and paste information from other listings. Your listing content must be original and specific to your property.
One Listing Per Property
Vrbo allows only one listing per property on each account. Creating multiple listings for the same property to increase visibility is not permitted.
Specificity
Each listing must describe the advertised unit only. Do not include information about additional units in the same listing.
Marketplace Standards
Your listing must comply with Vrbo’s Marketplace Standards and Content Guidelines. These standards ensure a consistent and secure booking experience for guests.
For a detailed guide on creating a Vrbo listing, including step-by-step instructions, refer to our chapter on How to Create a Vrbo Listing.
Vrbo Photo Requirements
High-quality photos are essential for attracting travelers to your listing. Vrbo recommends uploading at least six professional-quality photos that showcase your property and its surroundings. Here are the specific requirements:
Technical Specifications
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- Minimum Resolution: 1024 x 683 pixels
- Ideal Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels or higher
Maximum File Size: 20 MB
- Orientation: Horizontal/landscape
- Supported Formats: JPEG/JPG, PNG, or GIF
Photo Guidelines
- Avoid low-resolution, blurry, or overly dark photos.
- Do not use black-and-white images.
- Ensure photos are oriented correctly (landscape, not portrait).
- Only include photos of your property and its surroundings.
- Do not use watermarked or copied images.
- Avoid inappropriate content.
Multi-Unit Properties
For multi-unit properties, include at least one building exterior photo, one interior/lobby photo, three guest room photos, and one bathroom photo.
Vrbo’s platform flags photos that don’t meet these requirements, so double-check your photos before uploading them.
Vrbo Host Requirements for Safety
As a Vrbo host, it’s your responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of your guests. Here are some essential steps to take:
First Aid Kit
Provide a fully stocked first aid kit in an easily accessible location.
Fire Safety
Equip your property with fire safety equipment, including a fire extinguisher and smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
Locks and Security
Ensure all exterior doors and windows have working locks, and check them regularly.
Emergency Exit Route
Provide a clear emergency exit route and ensure guests are aware of it.
Exterior Lighting
Install adequate exterior lighting to help guests navigate your property safely at night.
Childproofing
If your property is family-friendly, take steps to childproof your home to ensure the safety of young guests.
Surveillance Devices
If you use security cameras outside your property, refer to Vrbo’s policy on surveillance devices and disclose their presence in your listing.
Include details about all the above items in your listing description, so guests know exactly what to expect and where to find your safety equipment. You may also want to provide them with contact information for local emergency services and hospitals.
Vrbo Age Requirement for Hosts
While there’s no specific age requirement for Vrbo hosts, Vrbo’s Host Terms of Service state that you must be at least 18 years old to create an account. This ensures that hosts are legally capable of entering into contracts and managing their listings responsibly.
Start Hosting on Vrbo
Now that you understand the Vrbo host requirements, you’re ready to begin your journey as a Vrbo host. Your next steps are to create your Vrbo account and listing. For detailed instructions, refer to our chapter on How to Create a Vrbo Listing or download our full Ultimate Guide to Listing on Vrbo.
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