Frequently Asked Questions 

Why is Vrbo changing its compensation model? 

Vrbo is streamlining its compensation models to align with industry standards. This change ensures travelers receive the best rates possible, allowing Vrbo to maintain competitiveness and drive demand for its hosts. 

Is Vrbo retiring the Pay-Per-Subscription (PPS) model?  

Yes. Vrbo is retiring its Pay-Per-Subscription model and migrating existing hosts to its Pay-Per-Booking model to align with industry standards. Learn more about Pay-Per-Booking fees.  

What is Vrbo’s new commission fee for listings? 

Under Vrbo’s Pay-Per-Booking (PPB) model, Vrbo hosts will incur a flat 12% commission fee on bookings, which includes payment processing fees.  

Commission fees may vary regionally and across Vrbo’s global heritage brands, ranging from 12-15%. Hosts can find the rate that applies to their listing(s) in the Vrbo Dashboard.   

Does Vrbo still charge additional payment processing fees? 

Beginning October 29, 2026, payment processing fees are going away for hosts who are on Vrbo’s merchant of record. There are some regional exceptions where payment processing fees are still charged due to compensation model variations in different countries. Hosts can refer to their Vrbo Dashboard or payout summary for a breakdown of payment details and charges. Learn more on how fees are calculated. 

When are these changes going into effect? 

Changes will begin going into effect on October 29, 2026. For hosts on Vrbo’s subscription model, changes will go into effect at the end of their subscription term.  

What about bookings made before the commission change? 

Bookings made after the new commission model goes into effect will have the new commission rate applied.  Bookings made before the commission change goes into effect will be subject to the host’s previous commission rate, plus the usual payment processing fee if Vrbo is the merchant of record. Commission rates will be calculated based on the time the booking was made, regardless of the stay dates.  

How much is Vrbo’s traveler service fee? 

Vrbo does not disclose its traveler service fee range. In order to offer the most competitive rates possible, the traveler service fee will typically be lower following the compensation model changes; however, Vrbo will price the fee dynamically based on market conditions. The traveler service fee covers secure payment processing, 24/7 customer support, and guest protections like VrboCare.  

Where can hosts find a breakdown of payment details and charges? 

On each booking, hosts can expand the payment details to see the breakdown of what the traveler paid, commission paid to Vrbo, and host payout. Learn more about payment details here or consult directly with your software provider.  

Is Vrbo’s commission rate competitive? 

Yes. Vrbo’s compensation model is on par with the industry with a commission rate that is lower than many competitors.  

What does Vrbo’s commission apply to? 

Commission is based on the nightly rate and additional fees the host charges the traveler (i.e. cleaning, pet, and boat fees). Taxes and refundable damage deposits are treated separately from the commission.  

Can some Vrbo bookings have different fees? 

Yes. Additional fees may vary for hosts using property management software. Regional regulations may also affect the charges that apply. Hosts can reference the Vrbo Dashboard and booking statements for the rate and fee treatment associated with their listings.  

General Questions about Hosting on Vrbo 

How much does it cost to list on Vrbo? 

Listing your property is completely free. Vrbo operates on a Pay-Per-Booking model, which means you’ll only pay a fee when you receive bookings. 

Does Vrbo charge an annual listing fee? 

No. It is free to list your property. 

What tools and services does Vrbo offer for hosts? 

Vrbo provides tools to help hosts manage a vacation rental from listing creation through guest communication. Hosts can create and update listings, leverage dynamic pricing tools, manage availability, sync calendars, and screen and communicate with guests.  

Hosts can also choose their hosting frequency and list year-round, seasonally, or for select dates based on property availability and occupancy goals.  

Can hosts control who stays in their property? 

Yes. Hosts can set House Rules such as maximum number of guests, pets and children guidelines and custom rules, and may cancel if a traveler does not meet those rules. 

What protections or support can hosts access? 

Vrbo is committed to the trust and safety of its hosts, offering secure payments, dedicated 24/7 support, damage deposit support, and assistance with stay issues.  Learn more here. 

Why should I list with Vrbo? 

Vrbo combines a competitive Pay-Per-Booking model with practical tools and support for managing a vacation rental. Hosts can list for free, set availability and guest requirements, use pricing guidance, manage listings and calendars, communicate with travelers, and get 24/7 support.