Short Term Rental Glossary For Airbnb & Vrbo

Hot Tub Maintenance

Regular cleaning, water treatment, and equipment checks required to maintain the hygiene and functionality of hot tubs in short-term rentals.

Home Staging

The process of decorating and arranging furniture in a short-term rental to enhance its visual appeal and attract more bookings.

Hospitality Tray

A selection of complimentary amenities provided to guests in a short-term rental, typically including snacks, beverages, and toiletries.

Holiday Rental

A short-term rental specifically marketed and booked for holidays or special occasions.

High-Speed Internet Access

Reliable and fast internet connectivity provided as an amenity in short-term rentals, essential for remote work, entertainment, and communication.

Host Cancellation Policy

The terms and conditions outlining the circumstances under which a host may cancel a confirmed booking, often with penalties for cancellations.

Host Profile

The online representation of a host on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, showcasing their personal information, hosting experience, and guest reviews.

House Manual

A comprehensive guide provided to guests upon arrival, containing information about the property, appliances, amenities, and local recommendations.

Hotel Alternative

Short-term rentals are often considered as alternatives to traditional hotels, offering unique features, more space, and often a more local experience.

Harbormaster

A harbormaster is a person who regulates and manages a harbor or marina, sometimes playing a role in short-term rental communities located near waterfronts by

Hazard Insurance

A type of property insurance that protects against damage from events like fire, windstorms, and hail, often required by mortgage lenders and recommended for short-term

Harbor Regulations

Rules and guidelines set by harbormasters and local authorities governing activities and rentals in harbor areas, including noise levels, waste disposal, and permitted watercraft.

Half Bath

A bathroom that contains only a toilet and a sink, also known as a powder room or guest bathroom. Important for guests who may not

Hammock

A sling made of fabric, rope, or netting, suspended between two points, often trees, used for swinging, sleeping, or relaxing. Can be a desirable outdoor

Handicap Accessible

A property designed to accommodate guests with disabilities, featuring amenities like ramps, grab bars, widened doorways, and adapted bathrooms.

Hard Water

Water with a high mineral content, which can cause limescale buildup in appliances and plumbing. Hosts may need to use water softeners or provide instructions

Hashtags

Words or phrases preceded by the ‘#’ symbol used on social media platforms to categorize content and increase visibility. Hosts can use relevant hashtags to

Harbor View

A desirable feature in a vacation rental property that offers views of a harbor or marina, often commanding premium rental rates.

Hairdryer

A small appliance commonly provided as an amenity in short-term rentals, allowing guests to dry their hair after showering or swimming.

Hamper

A container, typically made of wicker, fabric, or plastic, provided in short-term rentals for guests to store dirty laundry.

Hangers

Devices used for hanging clothing, commonly provided in short-term rental closets to allow guests to unpack and store their clothes.

Hardware

Refers to the physical equipment and fixtures in a short-term rental, such as door handles, locks, appliances, and plumbing fixtures.

Heating System

The system responsible for providing warmth to the short-term rental property, encompassing various types like central heating, furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, or space heaters. It’s

Hero Image

The primary image displayed on a short-term rental listing, often the first visual impression for potential guests. It should be high-quality, captivating, and accurately represent

Headline Analyzer

A tool used in digital marketing and content creation to evaluate the effectiveness of headlines. For short-term rental listings, a headline analyzer can assess the

Heated Pool

A private or shared swimming pool with a heating system, allowing guests to enjoy swimming even during cooler months.

Helipad

A designated landing area for helicopters, often found in luxury or remote properties, offering exclusive arrival and departure options.

Heritage Property

A short-term rental property with historical or cultural significance, often subject to specific preservation rules and regulations.

Heated Floors

A luxurious amenity, particularly appealing in colder climates, where heating elements are installed beneath the floor to provide radiant warmth.

Hepa Filter

High-efficiency particulate air filters are essential for maintaining good air quality in rentals, particularly for guests with allergies, by removing dust mites, pollen, and other

Hero Shot

In real estate and rental photography, the hero shot is the primary image that captures the essence and most appealing aspect of the property.

Hfp cleaning

Cleaning protocols and products that meet specific standards, often required for short-term rentals in certain areas.

Hfp Compliant

Indicates that a short-term rental property adheres to all local regulations and safety requirements.

Hfp Guide

A comprehensive resource providing information and advice on managing short-term rentals, often platform-specific (e.g., Airbnb Guide, VRBO Guide).

Hfp Insurance

Specialized insurance policies designed to cover the unique risks associated with short-term rentals, such as property damage and liability.

Hfp Laws

Local or regional regulations specifically governing short-term rentals, often addressing issues like permits, taxes, and occupancy limits.

Hfp Listing

The online profile of a short-term rental property on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, showcasing details, photos, and booking information.

Hfp Management Company

A business that handles various aspects of short-term rental management on behalf of property owners, including listing, booking, cleaning, and guest communication.

Hfp Market Analysis

Research and data analysis to understand the performance of short-term rentals in a specific location, including occupancy rates, average daily rates, and seasonality.

Hfp Messaging

Communication between hosts and guests on short-term rental platforms, typically through the platform’s messaging system.

Hfp Occupancy Rate

The percentage of time a short-term rental property is booked over a specific period, indicating its popularity and revenue potential.

Hfp Permit

An official authorization required by some jurisdictions for operating a short-term rental property legally.

Hfp Platform

An online marketplace connecting short-term rental hosts with potential guests, such as Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com, or Expedia.

Hfp Pricing Strategy

Methods and techniques used to determine the optimal rental rates for a short-term rental property, considering factors like demand, seasonality, and competition.

Hfp Property

A dwelling unit, such as an apartment, house, or condo, listed and rented out for short-term stays on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO.

Hfp Regulations

Rules, laws, and guidelines established by governments or platforms to regulate the short-term rental industry, covering aspects like safety, taxation, and licensing.

Hfp Revenue

Income generated from renting out a property on a short-term basis through platforms like Airbnb or VRBO.

Hfp Reviews

Feedback and ratings provided by guests after their stay at a short-term rental, influencing future bookings and the property’s reputation.

Hfp Software

Digital tools and applications designed to assist short-term rental hosts and managers with tasks like listing management, booking automation, and guest communication.

Hfp Taxes

Taxes levied on income generated from short-term rentals, which may vary depending on the location and platform used.

Hg-Algorithm

Refers to the complex algorithms used by platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo to rank listings in search results, impacting their visibility to potential guests.

Hg-Amenities

The features and conveniences offered to guests within a short-term rental property, influencing its attractiveness and booking potential.

Hg-Automated Messaging

The use of software or platform tools to automate guest communication, including booking confirmations, check-in instructions, and responses to common inquiries.

Hg-Booking Calendar

A digital calendar used to manage reservations, track availability, and prevent double-bookings across multiple platforms.

Hg-Cancellation Policy

The terms and conditions that outline the penalties or refunds associated with guest cancellations, protecting both hosts and guests.

Hg-Channel Manager

A software solution that allows hosts or managers to manage listings, bookings, and calendars across multiple short-term rental platforms from a central dashboard.

Hg-Cleaning Fee

A separate charge added to the rental price to cover the cost of professional cleaning between guest stays.

Hg-Direct Booking

A reservation made directly with the host or property manager, bypassing third-party platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo.

Hg-Dynamic Pricing

A pricing strategy that adjusts rental rates in real-time based on factors like demand, seasonality, competitor pricing, and events.

Hg-Guest Experience

The overall impression and satisfaction a guest has with their stay, encompassing all aspects from booking to checkout.

Hg-Guest Screening

The process of vetting potential guests through reviews, identity verification, and communication to minimize risks and ensure property safety.

Hg-House Rules

A set of guidelines and expectations communicated to guests regarding their behavior, property use, and overall conduct during their stay.

Hg-Keyless Entry

A system that allows guests to access the property without a physical key, often using codes, keypads, or smartphone apps.

Hg-Liability Insurance

Insurance coverage that protects hosts from financial losses due to property damage, accidents, or liability claims arising from guest stays.

Hg-Local Experiences

Recommendations and arrangements provided to guests for activities, attractions, and unique experiences in the surrounding area.

Hg-Minimum Night Stay

The shortest allowable booking duration set by hosts to manage turnover costs, target specific guest types, or optimize occupancy during certain periods.

Hg-Occupancy Rate

The percentage of time a short-term rental property is booked over a specific period, indicating its popularity and revenue potential.

Hg-Property Management Software

Specialized software designed to streamline and automate various aspects of short-term rental management, including bookings, communication, cleaning, and maintenance.

Hg-Review Management

The process of monitoring, responding to, and leveraging guest reviews to improve the rental experience, build reputation, and attract future bookings.

Hh-Hospitality Tech

Software and hardware solutions designed specifically for the short-term rental industry, encompassing areas like property management, guest communication, and revenue optimization.

Hh-Host Guarantee

Protection programs offered by platforms like Airbnb to cover hosts for potential damages or losses caused by guests during their stay, subject to specific terms

Hh-Home Sharing

A broader term encompassing various forms of renting out one’s primary residence or a portion of it for short periods, often facilitated through platforms like

Hh-Housekeeping Services

Professional cleaning and maintenance services specifically tailored for short-term rentals, ensuring high standards of cleanliness and guest satisfaction between bookings.

Hh-Hybrid Pricing

A pricing strategy that combines elements of both dynamic pricing and fixed pricing, allowing hosts to adjust rates based on demand while maintaining some level

Hh-High-Speed Internet

Reliable and fast internet connectivity provided as an essential amenity for short-term rental guests, enabling them to stay connected, work remotely, or enjoy entertainment options.

Hh-Host Responsiveness

The speed and quality of communication between hosts and potential or current guests, influencing booking decisions and overall guest satisfaction.

Hh-Home Automation

The integration of smart home technology into short-term rentals, allowing for remote control of amenities like lighting, temperature, and security systems, enhancing guest convenience and

Hh-Hospitality Standards

Guidelines and best practices for providing exceptional service and creating a welcoming and comfortable experience for short-term rental guests.

Hh-Host Earnings

The revenue generated by hosts from short-term rentals after deducting expenses such as platform fees, cleaning costs, and maintenance.

Hh-Hyperlocal Marketing

Marketing strategies that target potential guests within a specific geographic area, promoting local attractions, experiences, and the unique features of the rental property.

Hh-High Season

Periods of peak travel demand in a particular destination, often characterized by increased booking volume, higher occupancy rates, and potentially higher rental rates.

Hh-Home Staging

The process of preparing and decorating a short-term rental property to enhance its visual appeal, highlight its best features, and attract more bookings.

Hh-Host Profile

The host’s representation on short-term rental platforms, showcasing their personality, hosting style, and property details to potential guests.

Hh-Hospitality Management Company

A specialized business that handles various aspects of short-term rental management for property owners, including listing optimization, guest communication, cleaning, and maintenance.

Hh-House Manual

A comprehensive guide provided to guests upon arrival, containing essential information about the property, appliances, house rules, and local recommendations.

Hh-Host Insurance

Specialized insurance policies designed to cover the unique risks associated with short-term rentals, providing liability protection, property damage coverage, and income replacement.

Hh-Hospitality Trends

Emerging patterns and preferences shaping the short-term rental industry, influencing guest expectations, property features, and marketing strategies.

Hh-Host Community

Online and offline networks of short-term rental hosts who connect to share knowledge, experiences, and support related to hosting.

Hh-Home Away from Home

A common marketing phrase used to emphasize the comfort, convenience, and personalized experience offered by short-term rentals compared to traditional accommodations.

Hi-Impact Amenities

Amenities that significantly enhance the guest experience and can justify higher rental rates. Examples include hot tubs, fire pits, game rooms, and exceptional views.

Hi-Touch Cleaning

A thorough cleaning process that goes beyond basic sanitation, focusing on frequently touched surfaces and using hospital-grade disinfectants. Especially important in the wake of health

Hi-Season Pricing

Setting higher rental rates during periods of peak demand, such as holidays, special events, and popular travel seasons.

Hi-Tech Security

Implementing advanced security measures like smart locks, security cameras, and noise monitoring systems to protect the property and enhance guest safety.

Hi-Visibility Listing

Optimizing your listing to rank higher in search results on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, increasing its visibility to potential guests.

Hi-Quality Photography

Using professional, high-resolution photos to showcase the property’s best features and attract more bookings.

Hi-Speed Wi-Fi

Providing fast and reliable internet access, essential for remote workers, digital nomads, and guests who rely on streaming services.

Hi-Definition Television

Offering a high-quality television experience with HD or 4K resolution, often paired with streaming services like Netflix or Hulu.