Short Term Rental Glossary For Airbnb & Vrbo

Cbtp (Community Benefit Tourism Program)

A program that encourages tourism development that benefits local communities, often through partnerships with local businesses and organizations. Short-term rental hosts can participate in such

Cbp (Cost Basis)

The original cost of an asset, such as a property, used to calculate capital gains or losses for tax purposes. Important for hosts to track

Cbya (Charter By Yacht Association)

An association representing the yacht charter industry. While not directly related to traditional short-term rentals, it highlights the growing trend of alternative accommodation options and

Cbdo (Cannabidiol)

A compound found in cannabis plants that is often used for its therapeutic effects. While legal in some areas, hosts need to be aware of

Cbd (Central Business District)

The commercial and business center of a city, often a desirable location for short-term rentals due to proximity to attractions, businesses, and transportation.

Cboi (Chicago Board of Options Exchange)

A major options exchange. While not directly relevant to short-term rentals, it serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding market volatility and fluctuations,

Cbt (Combustible)

Refers to materials that can easily catch fire. Important for hosts to be aware of fire safety regulations and ensure their property has adequate fire

Central Reservation System (CRS)

A centralized system used by property managers to manage bookings, availability calendars, and rates across multiple platforms like Airbnb and VRBO.

Ceilings, Vaulted

A high, arched ceiling often found in living rooms or bedrooms, adding a sense of spaciousness and grandeur to a short-term rental property.

Census Tract

A small, relatively permanent statistical subdivision of a county or equivalent entity delineated by the US Census Bureau. Useful for analyzing demographic and economic data

Central Air Conditioning

An air conditioning system that uses ductwork to distribute cool air throughout a property, providing consistent and comfortable temperatures for guests.

Centennial State

A nickname for the U.S. state of Colorado, a popular destination for short-term rentals due to its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Center City

A term often used to describe the central business district of a city, frequently a desirable location for short-term rentals due to proximity to attractions,

Central Time Zone

One of the nine standard time zones in the United States, relevant for coordinating bookings, communication, and check-in/check-out times for short-term rentals.

Ceramic Cooktop

A type of stovetop found in some short-term rentals, offering a sleek and modern cooking surface that may be highlighted as an amenity.

Check-in, Contactless

A process that allows guests to access a property without in-person interaction with the host or property manager. This typically involves using smart locks, keypads,

Check-out Instructions

A list of instructions provided to guests outlining the steps they need to take before departing a rental property, such as returning keys, locking doors,

Child-Friendly Amenities

Features and amenities that make a rental property suitable for families with children, such as high chairs, cribs, toys, and safety gates.

Churn Rate

In the context of short-term rentals, this refers to the percentage of guests who do not return for a repeat booking within a specific timeframe.

Charter Guest

A guest who books a short-term rental property for a specific period, typically for vacation or leisure purposes.

Check-in Time

The designated time at which guests are permitted to access a short-term rental property upon arrival.

Check-out Time

The designated time by which guests are required to vacate a short-term rental property at the end of their stay.

Checkout Procedures

The specific instructions provided to guests for how to check out of the property, including returning keys, locking up, and disposing of trash.

Childproofing

The act of making a property safe for children by securing furniture, covering outlets, and removing potential hazards.

City Ordinance

A law or regulation enacted by a local government that specifically addresses short-term rentals, often covering aspects like registration, licensing, zoning, and permitted usage.

City Permit

An official document issued by a local government that allows a property owner to legally operate a short-term rental.

Cityscape

The visual appearance of a city, often used in marketing materials to highlight a property’s location and views.

Circadian Lighting

Smart lighting systems in short-term rentals that adjust color temperature and intensity throughout the day to mimic natural light patterns, promoting better sleep for guests.

City Taxes

Taxes imposed by local governments on short-term rentals, often as a percentage of the rental income or a flat fee per night.

Cleaning Protocol

A detailed list of cleaning procedures that must be followed between guest stays to ensure a high level of cleanliness and sanitation.

Cleaning Supplies

Items such as disinfectants, cleaning solutions, sponges, mops, and other materials used to clean and maintain the rental property.

Climate Control

Features and systems within the rental property that allow guests to adjust the temperature, such as heating, air conditioning, and ventilation.

Closed Season

A specific period during the year when a rental property is unavailable for bookings, often due to seasonal factors or owner use.

Client Portal

An online platform or software feature that allows property owners to communicate with their property manager, access financial reports, and manage property details.

Claim Resolution

The process of addressing and resolving issues or disputes arising from guest stays, such as property damage, security deposit deductions, or liability claims, typically involving

Client Onboarding

The process of welcoming and integrating new short-term rental owners who have hired a property manager or management company. This typically involves gathering property details,

Client Testimonials

Positive reviews and feedback from satisfied homeowners who have used a short-term rental management service. Testimonials can build trust and credibility for property managers, showcasing

Close to Transit

A desirable property feature indicating proximity to public transportation options such as bus stops, train stations, or subway lines, making it convenient for guests to

Cmmand Center

A centralized platform or dashboard that provides a comprehensive overview of all aspects of short-term rental management, including bookings, guest communication, cleaning schedules, and financial

Cmmerical Laundry Service

A professional laundry service specifically catering to businesses, often used by short-term rental hosts to ensure high-quality linen and towel cleaning.

Cmmunity Forum

Online platforms or groups where short-term rental hosts and managers can connect, share advice, discuss industry trends, and seek support.

Cmmunity Guidelines

Rules and expectations set by Airbnb and VRBO for guest behavior within a property and the surrounding community.

Cmmunity Impact

The effects, both positive and negative, that short-term rentals can have on the local community, including housing affordability, noise levels, and neighborhood character.

Cmpensation Claim

A formal request made by a guest or host to Airbnb or VRBO for financial reimbursement due to damages, injuries, or other issues covered by

Cmplimentary Amenities

Additional perks or services offered to guests free of charge, such as toiletries, snacks, Wi-Fi, or access to amenities like a pool or gym.

Cmpliance Regulations

Laws, rules, and guidelines set by local governments or homeowners’ associations that govern short-term rentals, including licensing, safety, and taxation.

Cmprehensive Insurance

A type of insurance policy specifically designed for short-term rental properties, covering potential risks such as property damage, liability, and loss of income.

Cmmercial Property Insurance

Insurance that protects the physical assets of a business, such as the building, equipment, and inventory, from covered perils like fire, theft, and natural disasters.

Cmmission Fee

A percentage of the booking revenue charged by property management companies or platforms like Airbnb and VRBO for their services.

Cmmission Structure

The different tiers or levels of commission fees that a property management company might charge based on factors like booking volume or property type.

Cmmunication Channels

The various platforms or methods used to communicate with guests, including email, SMS, messaging apps, and phone calls.

Cmmunication Log

A record of all interactions and communications with guests, including inquiries, booking confirmations, and issue resolutions.

Cmmunication Preferences

The preferred methods and frequency of communication that guests can select, allowing for personalized guest experiences.

Cmmunity Pool

A shared swimming pool within a complex or community that is accessible to guests staying at properties within that community.

Cmmunity Rules

Specific guidelines and regulations set by the homeowners association or management of a community where a short-term rental is located.

Co-Hosting Agreement

A legally binding contract outlining the responsibilities and compensation structure between a primary host and a co-host.

Co-Host Platform

An online platform connecting property owners with potential co-hosts offering management services for short-term rentals.

Co-Host Services

Tasks performed by a co-host, such as guest communication, cleaning, maintenance, and problem resolution.

Co-Marketing Partnership

A collaborative agreement between short-term rental businesses to promote each other’s services or products.

Code of Conduct

A set of guidelines outlining acceptable behavior for guests staying in a short-term rental property.

Collaborative Consumption

An economic model based on sharing, renting, or borrowing assets or services, often facilitated by online platforms like Airbnb.

Collection Agency

A third-party service that assists property owners in recovering unpaid fees or damages from guests.

Color Scheme

The selection and combination of colors used in a short-term rental property’s interior design to create a specific ambiance.

Comfort Items

Amenities provided in a short-term rental to enhance guest comfort, such as high-quality linens, pillows, and blankets.

Commercial-Grade Appliances

Durable and high-performance appliances designed for frequent use in commercial settings, often found in short-term rentals.

Commission Rate

The percentage of rental income charged by a property manager or platform for their services.

Common Area

Shared spaces within a short-term rental property or building accessible to multiple guests or residents.

Communication Etiquette

Guidelines for professional and respectful communication between hosts, guests, and other stakeholders in the short-term rental industry.

Commute Time

The estimated travel time from a short-term rental property to popular attractions, transportation hubs, or business districts.

Competitive Advantage

Unique features or benefits that differentiate a short-term rental property from competitors and attract guests.

Competitive Pricing

Setting rental rates strategically to remain competitive within the market while maximizing occupancy and revenue.

Competitive Set

A group of similar short-term rental properties in the same market area that compete for the same pool of guests.

Conditional Booking

A reservation request that requires host approval based on factors like guest reviews or specific booking requirements.

Conflict Resolution

The process of addressing and resolving disputes or disagreements between hosts and guests or other stakeholders.

Contactless Check-In

A process that allows guests to access the property without any face-to-face interaction with the host, typically through keyless entry systems, lockboxes, or smart locks.

Credit Card Processing Fee

A fee charged by payment processors for each transaction made using a credit card. This fee is typically a percentage of the transaction amount plus

Cross-Listing

The practice of listing a property on multiple short-term rental platforms, such as Airbnb and VRBO, to increase visibility and booking potential.

Crowd-Sourced Reviews

Reviews and ratings provided by previous guests on short-term rental platforms, offering valuable insights into the guest experience and property quality.

Crisis Management Plan

A documented plan outlining procedures and responsibilities in case of emergencies or unforeseen situations affecting the property or guests.

Critical Feedback

Negative reviews or feedback from guests highlighting areas for improvement in the property, amenities, or hosting services.

Craigslist

An online classifieds platform that can be used to advertise short-term rentals, particularly for local or budget-conscious travelers.

Cross-Cultural Communication

The ability to communicate effectively with guests from diverse cultural backgrounds, respecting their customs and preferences.

Credit Card Security Code

A three or four-digit number, usually found on the back of a credit card, used to verify the cardholder’s identity during online transactions for short-term

Credit Limit

The maximum amount of money a credit card company allows a cardholder to borrow, which can impact a guest’s ability to book a short-term rental.

Cross-Border Payments

Payments made for short-term rental bookings where the guest’s bank and the host’s bank are located in different countries, often involving currency exchange and international

Credential Verification

The process of verifying the identity of both hosts and guests to enhance trust and security within the short-term rental community.