Short-term rentals, such as Airbnb and Vrbo, are becoming increasingly popular for vacation accommodations. According to Consumer Affairs, the nearly $40 billion industry is expected to double in market size by 2033.
As more travelers embrace vacation rental properties over traditional hotels and resorts, it’s important to understand that not all listings and properties are created equal. Before you make a booking you will regret, the travel experts at The New York Times suggest you do the following three things:
Know the neighborhood. Search the address to see where the property is located. You should be able to find unfiltered pictures of the property and the surrounding area. This will let you assess whether you think it’s safe, in good condition, accessible to amenities important to you, and more.
Read between the lines. Be wary of descriptions that are short, lack details, or seem intentionally vague. You should prioritize listings that offer clarity and transparency. Watch out for listings with lots of pictures of local landmarks or too many tightly cropped photos of décor, as this “may be a host’s attempt to distract from the less appealing features of a home. And if something about an image seems off, a Google Images search may help identify those that are A.I.-generated.”
Read the reviews. Look beyond the star rating and read what past guests have to say. According to the article, the comments don’t always match the star rating, so be sure to read each carefully to find out what it’s really like to stay at the property. Look for issues that could impact your stay, such as cleanliness, temperature control, and lack of amenities.
Have you ever stayed in a vacation rental property? Message The Seniors Trust on Facebook or X (formerly known as Twitter) and share your suggestions on what to look out for before booking a short-term rental stay.
