Vrbo - Vacation Rentals

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Vrbo, originally known as Vacation Rentals by Owner, is an online marketplace for vacation rentals. The company was founded in 1995 and allows property owners to list their homes, cabins, condos, and other vacation properties for short-term rentals. Vrbo primarily serves travelers seeking an alternative to traditional hotels by providing access to a wide variety of privately owned accommodations across the globe. Vrbo’s platform enables users to search for properties based on criteria such as location, price, number of guests, and amenities.

In 2006, Vrbo was acquired by HomeAway, another vacation rental platform. Both companies operated independently until HomeAway was purchased by Expedia Group in 2015. Vrbo became part of Expedia’s extensive portfolio, and in 2020, HomeAway was fully integrated into the Vrbo brand, consolidating the two platforms under a single name. Vrbo operates in more than 190 countries, offering millions of rental properties to travelers. It caters to families, groups, and individuals who prefer home-like accommodations during vacations, with properties ranging from beachfront villas and mountain cabins to urban apartments.

Vrbo’s business model is based on connecting property owners or managers with potential renters. Property owners can create detailed listings on the platform, including descriptions, photos, and pricing. The site operates on a fee structure where property owners are either charged an annual subscription fee or a commission per booking. Vrbo also provides guest reviews and ratings, helping travelers make informed decisions about their accommodation options.

The platform is known for its emphasis on privacy and space, as most listings consist of entire homes rather than shared spaces. This differentiates Vrbo from other vacation rental platforms, making it particularly popular among families and groups looking for more space during their travels. In recent years, Vrbo has expanded its services to include flexible cancellation policies and enhanced cleaning protocols, addressing the evolving needs of travelers.