A VHR, or vacation home rental, is a type of short-term rental (STR) where a property owner rents out their residential property to travelers for a short period of time, typically less than 30 days. VHRs have become increasingly popular in recent years as a way for property owners to earn extra income and for travelers to have an alternative to traditional hotels.
VHRs can come in a variety of forms, from apartments and condos to single-family homes and luxury villas. They offer travelers the opportunity to have a more authentic and unique experience in a destination, as they can live like a local and enjoy amenities like a full kitchen and private outdoor space.
Many VHRs are listed on websites such as Airbnb, Vrbo, and HomeAway, which provide a platform for property owners to advertise their properties and for travelers to search for and book accommodations. These platforms typically charge a fee to both property owners and travelers for their services.
There are several benefits to staying in a VHR rather than a traditional hotel. First and foremost, VHRs often offer more space and privacy than hotel rooms, which can be especially important for families or groups traveling together. Additionally, many VHRs are located in residential neighborhoods, providing a more authentic experience of the local culture and community.
VHRs also offer the convenience of a home-like environment, with amenities like a kitchen and laundry facilities, which can be especially beneficial for longer stays. Many VHRs also offer additional amenities such as a pool, hot tub, or outdoor space, which can enhance the overall travel experience.
VHRs often offer more amenities than hotels. Many VHRs come with a fully equipped kitchen, which allows guests to prepare meals themselves and save money on dining out. This can be a significant cost savings, especially for longer stays. Additionally, VHRs often come with other amenities such as a washer and dryer, which means you can save on laundry expenses as well.
VHRs may offer more flexible pricing than hotels. Many VHRs have variable pricing based on the season or demand, which means that prices may be lower during off-peak times or when there is less demand. In contrast, hotels often have fixed prices that are the same year-round, regardless of demand or season.
Also, VHRs may offer discounts for longer stays. While hotels often charge a higher nightly rate for longer stays, many VHRs offer discounts for weekly or monthly rentals. This means that guests can save money by staying longer.
Finally, VHRs often have lower fees than hotels. Many hotels charge additional fees for amenities such as parking, Wi-Fi, or room service. VHRs, on the other hand, often include these amenities in the rental price, which means that guests can avoid additional fees and save money.