Short Term Rental Glossary For Airbnb & Vrbo

Sdm (Smart Display Manager)

Software used to manage and control content displayed on digital signage, potentially useful for displaying property information or local attractions in a rental unit.

Sdo (Standards Development Organization)

An organization that develops and maintains technical standards, which can impact the development and implementation of technology used in short-term rental management.

Sdp (Session Description Protocol)

A protocol used for establishing and managing multimedia communication sessions, potentially relevant for remote guest communication or virtual tours.

Sentiment Analysis

The use of natural language processing (NLP) techniques to analyze guest reviews and feedback, identifying positive and negative sentiment to improve guest experiences and address

Seamless Guest Experience

The goal of providing guests with a smooth and enjoyable experience from booking to checkout, encompassing clear communication, easy access, comfortable accommodations, and thoughtful amenities.

Security Measures

Implementations to ensure the safety of both the property and guests, such as security cameras, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and secure door locks.

Segmentation

The process of dividing potential guests into specific groups based on shared characteristics, allowing hosts to tailor their marketing efforts and property amenities to attract

Self-Management

The act of managing all aspects of a short-term rental property independently, including listing creation, guest communication, cleaning, maintenance, and booking management.

Service Level Agreement (SLA)

A contract between a host and a service provider, outlining specific performance expectations, response times, and service guarantees for tasks like cleaning, maintenance, or guest

Seasonal Decor

Decorative elements added to a short-term rental property to enhance ambiance and create a festive atmosphere during specific times of the year, such as holidays

Search Filters

Criteria used by guests on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO to narrow down search results based on preferences like location, price range, amenities, and property

Self-Guided Tours

A method allowing potential guests to virtually explore a property through 360-degree photos, videos, or virtual reality (VR) experiences, offering an immersive preview of the

Service Recovery

The process of addressing and resolving guest issues or complaints effectively and efficiently, aiming to turn negative experiences into positive ones and maintain guest satisfaction.

Service Fees

Charges applied by platforms like Airbnb and VRBO for using their services, often a percentage of the booking total or a flat fee per booking.

Service Animal

An animal that is individually trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability, and hosts are generally required to accommodate them under fair

Set Up Fees

One-time charges associated with preparing a property for short-term rentals, such as initial cleaning, furnishing, or installation of smart home devices.

Sfingid Moth

A family of moths known for their hovering behavior and long tongues, sometimes mistaken for hummingbirds, and can be a fascinating sight for guests staying

Sfumato (Italian for “Smoked”)

A painting technique that creates soft, hazy transitions between colors, often used metaphorically to describe the seamless blending of amenities and services in a luxury

Sg Occupancy Rate

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

Sg Revenue Management

The practice of optimizing pricing and availability to maximize revenue from short-term rental properties.

Sg Guest Screening

The process of verifying the identity and assessing the risk of potential guests before confirming a booking.

Sg Smart Home Technology

The integration of devices and systems that automate and control various aspects of a short-term rental property, enhancing guest experience and convenience.

Sg Channel Manager

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

Sg Guest Communication

The interaction between hosts and guests throughout the booking process and during their stay, encompassing inquiries, confirmations, check-in instructions, and support.

Sg Property Management Software

Comprehensive tools designed to streamline various aspects of short-term rental management, including bookings, guest communication, cleaning, and maintenance.

Sg Dynamic Pricing

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

Sg Guest Reviews

Feedback provided by guests after their stay, reflecting their experience and influencing the perception of a short-term rental property.

Sg Legal Compliance

Adhering to local regulations, permits, and tax requirements related to short-term rentals in a specific jurisdiction.

Sg Property Photography

High-quality images that showcase a short-term rental property’s features, amenities, and ambiance, attracting potential guests.

Sg Guest Experience Management

The proactive approach of optimizing all aspects of a guest’s stay, from pre-booking to post-departure, to create a positive and memorable experience.

Sg Property Listing Optimization

The process of enhancing a short-term rental listing’s visibility and appeal on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO through compelling descriptions, high-quality photos, and relevant keywords.

Sg Direct Bookings

Bookings made directly through a host’s website or other channels, bypassing third-party platforms and their associated fees.

Sg Local Experiences

Activities, tours, or recommendations provided by hosts to enhance guests’ stay by connecting them with local attractions, restaurants, and culture.

Sg Property Access Control

Methods and technologies used to manage and secure access to a short-term rental property, such as smart locks, keypads, or lockboxes.

Sg Cleaning and Maintenance

Essential tasks related to maintaining the cleanliness, hygiene, and functionality of a short-term rental property between guest stays.

Sg Guest Verification

The process of confirming a guest’s identity and booking details to prevent fraud and ensure security.

Sg Property Damage Protection

Insurance or security deposits that protect hosts from potential financial losses due to accidental or intentional damage caused by guests.

Sg Sustainable Hosting

Implementing eco-friendly practices in short-term rental operations, such as energy conservation, waste reduction, and responsible sourcing.

Shorthaul Booking

A short-term rental booking with a relatively short lead time between the booking date and the check-in date. These are often spontaneous or last-minute trips.

Shoulder Season

The period between a destination’s peak season and off-season, offering a balance of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and potentially lower prices.

Shareable Amenities

Amenities offered in a short-term rental property that are designed for the use of multiple guests, such as a pool, hot tub, or common area.

Shorthaul Market

A segment of the short-term rental market characterized by bookings for short stays, often within driving distance of guests’ homes.

Shareable Content

Engaging and informative content related to a short-term rental property that guests are encouraged to share on social media or with friends and family.

Showcase Property

A high-quality, well-maintained, and desirable short-term rental property that is used to attract premium guests and generate positive reviews.

Shared Economy

An economic model based on the sharing of resources, such as homes or apartments, through online platforms like Airbnb and VRBO.

Short-Stay Visa

A type of visa that allows travelers to stay in a country for a short period, often for tourism or business purposes, relevant for international

Showcase Listing

A meticulously crafted listing on a short-term rental platform that highlights the best features of a property with compelling descriptions and high-quality photos.

Sheltered Entrance

A covered area at the entrance of a short-term rental property, providing protection from the elements for guests arriving or departing.

Shabbat-Observant Amenities

Amenities that cater to the needs of Jewish guests observing Shabbat, such as a kosher kitchen, Shabbat elevator, or nearby synagogue.

Short-Term Rental Market Analysis

Research conducted to understand the performance of the short-term rental market in a specific location, including occupancy rates, average daily rates, and seasonal trends.

Shiplap Walls

A popular interior design feature characterized by horizontal wooden boards, often used in short-term rentals to create a cozy or rustic aesthetic.

Short-Term Rental Tax

Taxes levied on short-term rental income by local or state governments, often subject to specific regulations and collection methods.

Shared Living Space

An arrangement where a host rents out a room or portion of their primary residence to a short-term guest, often offering a more affordable accommodation

Short-Term Rental Platform

An online marketplace that connects hosts listing short-term rental properties with potential guests, such as Airbnb, VRBO, or Booking.com.

Short-Term Rental Yield

A measure of the profitability of a short-term rental property, calculated as the annual rental income divided by the property value, expressed as a percentage.

Shoulder Season Pricing

A pricing strategy for short-term rentals that involves offering discounted rates during shoulder seasons (the periods between peak and off-season) to attract more bookings.

Single-Family Home

A stand-alone residential property intended for occupation by one family, often a popular choice for short-term rentals.

Site Inspection

A physical visit to a potential rental property to assess its condition, suitability, and compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

Signal Boosting

Promoting your short-term rental listing on social media, forums, or other channels to increase visibility and attract bookings.

Signature Experience

A unique and memorable activity or service offered to guests, often highlighting local culture, attractions, or the host’s expertise.

Silent Period

A predetermined timeframe during which guests are expected to minimize noise levels, typically during nighttime hours.

Silverware Inventory

The complete set of forks, spoons, knives, and other dining utensils provided for guests in a short-term rental.

Similar Listings Analysis

The process of researching and comparing your short-term rental to competitors in the area to identify pricing trends, amenities, and marketing strategies.

Simplified Pricing

A straightforward pricing strategy that uses a flat rate for all bookings, regardless of the season or length of stay.

Single-Point Access

A security feature where a property only has one main entrance and exit point, controlled by a single lock or access system.

Situational Awareness

Being aware of your surroundings and potential risks associated with hosting strangers in your short-term rental.

Six-Month Lease

A rental agreement for a fixed period of six months, often used by hosts transitioning between short-term and long-term rentals.

Sister Property

A separate rental property owned by the same host or management company, often located in close proximity to other listings.

Sjees

A South African term, similar to “Wow!” or “Geez!”, often used by guests to express surprise or amazement at a property’s features or views.

Sjoelbak Rental

Offering a sjoelbak, a traditional Dutch shuffleboard game, as an amenity for guests’ entertainment, particularly popular in properties catering to families or groups.

Sjoman’s Knot

A secure knot often used in nautical settings, it can be metaphorically applied to the reliable and efficient management of various aspects of a short-term

Sjopping Cart Abandonment

Similar to e-commerce, it refers to potential guests who initiate a booking on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO but leave before completing the reservation.

Sjopovla

A Swedish term for “Sea View,” highlighting a desirable feature for short-term rentals, often commanding premium pricing.

Sjtation Wagon Accessibility

Refers to the ease with which guests driving station wagons, often families, can access the property, including parking and unloading areas.

Sjukstuga

A Swedish word for “Sick Room,” emphasizing the importance of having a comfortable and well-equipped space for guests who may fall ill during their stay.

Sjovt Design

A Danish term for “Fun Design,” emphasizing the use of playful and engaging interior design elements to enhance guest experience.

Sjælland Cottage

Refers to charming and traditional cottages found on the Danish island of Sjælland, often sought after by tourists for their authentic experience.

Sjöutsikt

A Swedish term for “Lake View,” a desirable characteristic for short-term rentals offering tranquility and scenic beauty.

Sjøbod

A Norwegian term for a traditional boathouse, often renovated into unique and charming short-term rentals, particularly appealing to those seeking waterfront experiences.

Sjovt for Børn

A Danish phrase meaning “Fun for Children,” highlighting amenities and features that cater to families and make the property kid-friendly.

Självbetjäning

A Swedish term for “Self-Service,” emphasizing the provision of amenities and information that empower guests to manage aspects of their stay independently.

Sjötomt

A Swedish term for “Lake Plot,” highlighting the value of short-term rentals situated on desirable land near lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities.

Sjovt Selskab

A Danish phrase for “Fun Company,” emphasizing the importance of creating a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for groups of guests.

Sjömanshus

A Swedish term for “Sailor’s House,” often used to describe charming and historic cottages near the sea, appealing to guests seeking a nautical experience.

Sjældent Fund

A Danish phrase meaning “Rare Find,” used to market unique and exclusive short-term rentals that stand out from the competition.

Sjovt og Hyggeligt

A Danish phrase combining “Fun” and “Hygge,” emphasizing the creation of a cozy, enjoyable, and memorable experience for guests.

Sjöstjärna

A Swedish word for “Starfish,” often used metaphorically to describe a highly-rated short-term rental that stands out for its exceptional quality and guest satisfaction.

Skift

A leading travel industry intelligence platform providing news, research, and insights on the short-term rental market.

Skyscanner

A popular travel search engine that allows users to compare prices for flights, hotels, and rental cars, including short-term rentals listed on platforms like Airbnb

Skimmer Scams

A type of credit card fraud where criminals use devices to steal card information during the booking process, posing a risk to both hosts and

Skip-Gen Travel

A growing trend in the travel industry where grandparents travel with their grandchildren, often opting for spacious and family-friendly short-term rentals over traditional hotels.

Skift Key

An annual travel industry conference organized by Skift, a travel intelligence platform, that brings together leaders and innovators to discuss the future of travel.