Vrbo announced new platform updates aimed at addressing vacation rentals that fail to meet guest expectations.The company’s new initiative, VrboCare, replaces its long-running “Book with Confidence Guarantee” and adds broader guest protections, stricter host standards, and AI-driven booking tools.
Expanded Protections for Guests
VrboCare expands the company’s previous rebooking policy from 30 to 90 days before arrival. The program covers host cancellations, check-in issues, fraud, and major property misrepresentations. Every booking on Vrbo now includes VrboCare automatically at no cost.
Vrbo’s 24/7 customer service team assists guests with rebooking into comparable accommodations when problems occur. The initiative is part of a broader effort to rebuild traveler trust in vacation rentals. According to Vrbo’s July 2025 research, 69% of U.S. vacation rental shoppers are concerned about listing accuracy when choosing a property.
Stricter Standards for Hosts and Listings
Vrbo is tightening its Premier Host requirements, which reward top-performing listings with higher visibility. Beginning early next year, the badge will apply at the listing level rather than to the host’s entire portfolio. Properties will need to maintain a 99% acceptance rate, a 0% cancellation rate, and an average review rating above 9.2 to qualify.
The company is also adding a “Loved by Guests” badge for listings rated 9.4 or higher for cleanliness, accuracy, check-in, and location. These designations are meant to help guests identify reliable properties and reduce uncertainty when booking.
AI-Powered Features
Vrbo has rolled out new AI tools to streamline the booking process. AI-generated summaries now condense guest reviews, while an AI-powered property Q&A feature answers common questions using verified reviews and listing information. The platform also uses AI to highlight property features based on individual traveler preferences.
Guest-uploaded photos now appear alongside written reviews, supplementing host-provided images. Only verified guests who completed stays can leave reviews, which Vrbo says it does not modify.
The updates come ahead of the holiday travel season and amid rising competition from other STR platforms seeking to address similar quality concerns.
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