“Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.”

— Gustave Flaubert

 

Are you ready to embark on a digital journey that could revolutionize the way people find and book vacation rentals? In today’s tech-savvy world, the demand for convenient, user-friendly platforms for renting homes or vacation properties is skyrocketing. If you’ve ever wondered how to build an app like Vrbo, you’re in the right place.

Vrbo, short for “Vacation Rentals by Owner,” has changed the way travelers experience their getaways. With millions of listings worldwide, it offers a seamless platform for property owners to showcase their spaces and for travelers to book their dream accommodations. But what if you have a unique vision for a vacation rental app or want to tap into this growing market?

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process to build an app like Vrbo, from concept to launch. We’ll explore the key features and business strategies you’ll need to succeed in the vacation rental industry.

So let’s begin.

What is a Vrbo App?

Vrbo is a platform for vacation rentals used by people worldwide. It is very similar to Airbnb but with slightly different rules for renters and hosts. Vrbo lets you rent rooms, apartments, condos, and other properties on a short-term basis, typically for up to one month. Vrbo is also part of a network that includes Expedia, Homeaway Canada Stays, and Hotwire. This means their properties are listed on these organizations.

 

 

The app offers a simple platform for searching for rental properties, such as vacation homes, cabins, condos, and more, in many destinations around the world. The app allows users to view details about the property, check its availability, read reviews, and book their stay securely. The app is a convenient tool for planning and enjoying vacations in privately owned properties. So, if you are planning to invest in vacation rental app development, it would be great to hire dedicated travel app developers. 

Overview of the Online Vacation Rental Market

• The Vacation Rentals Market is expected to generate revenues of US$94.34bn by 2023.
• The revenue is anticipated to increase at a CAGR of 3.37% between 2023 and 2027, leading to a market size of US$107.70 billion.
• The vacation accommodations market is predicted to have 0.90 billion consumers by 2027.
• By 2027, the projected user penetration will be 11.3% and 10.5%, respectively.
• The average revenue per user, or ARPU, is anticipated to be US$116.70.
• By 2027, online sales will generate 75% of the total revenue in the Vacation Rentals Market.
• The United States will generate the largest amount of revenue (US$19.390.00m by 2023) in global comparison.

 

How Does An App Like Vrbo Work?

Vrbo simplifies the process of renting a property. When a user opens an app, they are presented with a list of properties within a specific area. It only takes a few easy steps to cover the entire vacation. You need to know how Vrbo works before you can build your own rental booking app.

1. Online Registration

When you register with Vrbo, they ask for your complete name, email, and password. Sign up via Google or Facebook. Once your account has been confirmed, you can start searching for properties.

 

2. Property Selection

The top search bar allows users to select a specific location. Vrbo can access the location of the device to find nearby properties. The user must then select the desired location and enter the preferred parameters, such as the number of rooms and guests. Vrbo then shows you all the options. You can further filter them until you find your perfect rental property.

 

3. Payment and Confirmation

The user is charged after selecting the property, and an automatic fee is deducted. The commission-free money is sent to the host, who confirms the rental for the days selected.

 

How to Build an App Like Vrbo?

It can be difficult to build an app like Vrbo, but you can do it with the right tech stack and an iOS or Android app development services provider that specializes in on-demand apps. We’ll start by understanding its process.

 

1. Define Your Market Goal

You must first do an extensive market study and competitive research before starting travel software development. Find out the price at which they offer their services, and fill in any gaps on the market. You’ll also have to determine your specific goals. For example, what are you trying to accomplish? What is your goal, and how will you help the property owners?

 

2. Select A Platform

The next step to build an app like Vrbo is to select the right platform. Vrbo is an app that needs to be designed so it will run on both iOS devices and Android devices. Each platform requires its own tools and expertise. Cross-platform frameworks like React-native and Xamarin are used to create apps similar to Vrbo.

 

3. App Design

The next step to build an App Like Vrbo is app design. It’s now time to design your application. This includes the design of your logo, font styling, matching colors, insertion of an image and header and footer design. The design will determine how Vrbo interacts with the user.

 

4. Start the Development of the Vrbo App

The development phase begins after the design is complete. The steps to build an app like Vrbo are divided into two phases: front-end development and back-end development. You will need to hire an On-demand app development company that can assist in developing the app with code and the right tech stack.

The front-end development of an application like Vrbo determines the interface. Here, you will implement pagination, navigation buttons, content images, listings, carts, and payment gateways. The back-end process also includes the code that is used behind the scenes.

This phase contains user data, API requests, and payment transfers. This phase is not part of the user interaction, but it plays an important role.

 

5. Application Testing

The app must be tested in different phases after travel mobile app development. The testing includes unit, integration, system, and acceptance tests. We also offer security, performance, and usability tests for your app.

 

6. Deploy your Application

The last step to build an app like Vrbo is to launch your app to the potential audience. It is now time to install your app on hosting servers after you have successfully tested and developed it. Some companies allow their clients to test the application themselves, but we will then deploy it on the Google Play Store or Apple Store for free. You must also regularly update your app and take support from maintenance services for the travel Industry.

 

Key Features to Build an App Like VRBO?

 

Creating an app like Vrbo requires a comprehensive set of features to provide users with a seamless experience for finding, booking, and managing vacation rentals. You need to choose the best mobile app development companies that can assist in integrating the key features in your app. Here are the key features you should consider when building an app like Vrbo:

1. User Panel

● Sign-up/Log-in

Email IDs or phone numbers can be used to sign up for the app or website. It is employed to identify the users and gather important data about them. The user may check in and make reservations for lodging whenever they want when the verification procedure is through. This feature is essential for apps such as Airbnb to ensure the safety and verification of their users.

 

● In-App Chat

This is a must-have feature for any company that wants to provide the best possible customer service and engagement. If the customer has any questions, they can contact the executive at any moment. Chatbot app development is necessary for better user engagement.

 

● Push Notifications

It is important that users and partners are kept informed about all booking updates and information. If a guest books a room in a certain location, they should be notified via push notification.

 

● Payment Methods

Include multiple payment options with the currency, so guests can select their preferred option.

 

● Wishlist

If the user is in a hurry or has missed the desired accommodation due to high rent, the user can save the information on their wishlist. When the rates they want are displayed, the user will be notified.

 

2. Host Panel

● Host Sign Up

Sign-up is required for the hosts to list their properties. Signup will be similar to the app for guests. The host must also provide a phone number or an email address.

 

●  Hosts’ Profile

After signing up, the host will be able to create their profile, including details like name, address, and phone number. They can also set passwords.

 

● Listing

The host can update details such as photos, amenities, basic IDs, documents related to the property, and bank details through the listing feature.

 

● Approval

In the event of unavailability, the host may accept or reject a request. So, if you want to integrate this feature into your app, then you must hire dedicated developers.

 

● Messaging

Guests can easily communicate with the host via messaging. They can send confirmation of the booking. This is a very common but powerful feature.

 

● Booking History

You can view your bookings, payment history, and revenue generated by clicking on this option.

 

Read Also: Mobile App Maintenance Costs

3. Admin Panel

● Dashboard

The admin panel will be managed by officials. Since we’re talking about features that are essential for a vacation app, a good way to manage tasks is important.

 

●  Booking History

The admins can view all bookings, past, present, and future. They can also delete, edit, or update requests made by both the host and the guest.

 

● Insight

The insight feature is another essential feature that must be included in any vacation rental app. The admin can collect data and create reports to plan for future growth.

 

● Feedbacks

The admin will see all feedback from the guests and hosts so they can determine if there is a complaint.

 

How to Monetize An App Like VRBO?

Monetizing an app like Vrbo requires a well-thought-out strategy that balances revenue generation with providing value to users. Here are several ways that you must take into consideration when you build an app like Vrbo:

 

 

1. Service Charges

By using a model similar to Airbnb, investors can generate revenue by charging guests and hosts a fractional fee for each reservation made through the app. This fee is based on the reservation value, type of property, or additional services.

 

2. Premium Services

Offering top-notch optional services to hosts, such as professional photography, listing optimization, or better marketing knowledge, can create an additional revenue stream. These services are a great way to help hosts improve their listings, entice more bookings, and generate revenue for your app.

 

3. Advertisement and Sponsorships

Associating with local businesses, tour operators, or service providers can provide an opportunity to target advertising and support within the app. The app can make money through advertising fees and affiliate partnerships, while hosts benefit from increased exposure.

 

4. Data Insights

User data may be gathered and analyzed to produce insightful information that can be sold. This data can be anonymized and sold to companies that conduct market research, tourism organizations, or investors in the industry who are interested in consumer trends and behavior.

 

5. Partnerships

Revenue-sharing partnerships can be formed by working with businesses that are involved in travel, such as travel insurance companies, transportation firms, and booking platforms. Investors can earn commissions by providing unified services via the app.

 

6. Subscription Model

An announcement of a subscription model with tier-based estimating plans that offer additional features and reimbursements can create a regular revenue stream. This method provides hosts with improved tools and services while also creating a stable income for the application.

 

Top 5 Vacation Rental Apps

Vacation Rental Apps	Available Platform	Downloads	Ratings
Airbnb	Android | iOS	100M+	4.5
Booking.com	Android | iOS	500M+	4.6
TripAdvisor	Android | iOS	100M+	4.4
Expedia	Android | iOS	50M+	4.4
Couchsurfing	Android | iOS	5M+	3.1

1. Airbnb

 

Airbnb is probably the most well-known of all the vacation rental apps. It promises “unforgettable experiences” for your smartphone. You can search for listings, book a room, and browse local experiences. It’s easy to set parameters such as your dates and the number of guests. The Airbnb app makes it simple to communicate with hosts.

 

2. Booking.com

Booking.com was founded in Amsterdam in 1996. Travel apps like booking.com have become one of the most popular apps for vacation rentals. Over 28 million listings are available in 141,975 locations across 230 countries. It is also available in over 40 languages. Booking.com has a great price, making it one of the best vacation rental apps.

 

3. TripAdvisor

 

TripAdvisor is a popular travel and restaurant review website and app that allows users to search for and read reviews of hotels, restaurants, attractions, and other travel-related businesses. The TripAdvisor app is available for both iOS and Android devices and provides a convenient way for travelers to access information and make decisions on the go.

 

4. Expedia

Expedia Group is a US online travel company. You can list your properties like private homes, lodges, BnBs, etc. When the rent is paid directly by the guest to the host, this is called hotel collection. Expedia will charge a 15% commission in this case. However, if you want to build an app like Expedia, then you must choose one of the best custom software development services. Expedia Collect occurs when the guest pays their rent to Expedia, and then Expedia passes the payment on to the host, charging a commission of 20%.

 

5. Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing helps you do exactly what you think it would: meet locals and stay with them at their homes. It’s more risky than you may think. The app allows you to meet locals who want to host travelers, make new friends, and showcase their city for free. It is expected that you will show your appreciation to the host in some way, such as by going out for dinner or drinks.

 

Conclusion

Creating a Travel app like Vrbo requires careful planning, innovative technology, and a user-centric approach. To bring this idea to life, you’ll need to hire a hybrid app development company with expertise in mobile app development, database management, and user experience design.

 

By focusing on these key aspects, you can provide travelers with a seamless platform to discover and book vacation rentals, ensuring a successful venture in the competitive vacation rental market.

 

FAQ

1. How Much Does it Cost To Build An App like VRBO?

The cost to develop travel apps like Vrbo can vary significantly based on factors such as features, platform, and complexity. A rough estimate to build an app like Vrbo is from $10,000 to $15,000 for a basic version, while a more advanced app can cost well over $25,000. To know the exact tour and travel app development cost, you must consult with an experienced mobile app development company.

 

2. How Much Time Does It Take to Build an App Like VRBO?

It is vital to know that it takes around 4 to 12 months to build an app like Vrbo. The timeline may vary depending on factors like complexity, features, team size, and resources. Careful planning and a skilled development team can streamline the process, ensuring a faster time-to-market.

 

3. How Much Does Mobile App Maintenance Cost?

Mobile app maintenance costs vary based on complexity, updates, and bug fixes. Generally, it ranges from 15% to 20% of the app development cost annually. It can cost somewhere around $3000-$5000.

 

4. Is It Necessary To Have A Web Version Of The App Alongside The Mobile App?

Having a web version can provide additional accessibility and convenience for users who prefer using a desktop or laptop. It can also be a marketing tool and help with search engine visibility. You should proactively acquire the services of web and mobile app maintenance services providers to keep your web and app updated.

 

5. What Are the Benefits of Developing an App Like VRBO?

There are many benefits to build an app like Vrbo that you must checkout. For example, a lucrative vacation rental market, revenue from property listings, enhanced travel experiences, and fostering user trust through established platforms. Additionally, revenue is anticipated to reach $15,338 million in 2021, rising by $20,105 million by 2025 at a CAGR of 7%. By looking at these stats, it is clear that investing in vacation rental apps can be beneficial for businesses.