Short Term Rental Glossary of Terms
Venturing into the short-term rental industry can sometimes feel like learning a new language. From understanding the basics like “bookings” to the more advanced “dynamic pricing,” it’s essential to get a grip on the jargon to navigate the landscape effectively. Whether you’re a newbie host looking to decode the industry lingo, this glossary is for you!
This list is in alphabetical order.
1. ADR (Average Daily Rate): The average rental income per booked night over a specific time frame.
2. Amenities: Features and facilities provided at a rental property, such as Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, kitchen appliances, and more.
3. Airbnb: An online marketplace for lodging and tourism experiences.
4. Availability Calendar: A tool or feature that shows when a property is available or booked.
5. Blackout Dates: Specific dates when a property isn’t available for booking.
6. Booking Engine: Software that processes online reservations directly from a website.
7. Channel Manager: A tool that allows property owners to manage multiple listing platforms from one centralized system.
8. Cleaning Fee: An additional charge to cover the costs of cleaning the property after the guest’s stay.
9. Concierge Service: Specialized services provided to guests.
10. Double Booking: An error where a property is booked by two different guests for the same dates.
11. Dynamic Pricing: A strategy where rental prices fluctuate based on demand, local events, season, and other variables.
12. Host: The property owner or manager offering their property for short-term rent.
13. Host Guarantee: A program offered by platforms like Airbnb to cover potential property damages caused by guests.
14. House Rules: Guidelines set by the host that guests must follow during their stay.
15. Inquiry: A message from a potential guest asking questions or seeking more information before making a booking.
16. Instant Booking: Allows guests to book a property immediately without waiting for host approval.
17. Keyless Entry: A system that allows guests to access a property without a physical key.
See also: Top 4 Best Smart Locks For Airbnb (2023)
18. Last-minute Booking: A reservation made shortly before the check-in date.
19. Listing: The online advertisement for a short-term rental property.
20. Minimum Stay: The shortest duration of time a guest can book a property.
21. Nightly Rate: The cost per night to rent a property, excluding additional fees and taxes.
22. Occupancy Rate: The percentage of nights a property is rented out over a specific period.
23. Off-Peak Season: The period when demand for rentals in a specific area is low.
24. OTA (Online Travel Agency): Websites and apps where travelers can book accommodations.
25. Peak Season: The time of year when demand for short-term rentals in a particular area is at its highest.
26. Pre-approval: When a host gives a potential guest the green light to book without further questions.
27. Property Management System (PMS): Software that helps hosts manage reservations, guest communications, billing, and other aspects of their rental business.
28. Review System: A feature on many platforms where hosts and guests can leave feedback about their experiences.
29. Security Deposit: A refundable amount charged to guests to cover potential damages or extra cleaning costs.
30. Short-Term Rental (STR): A property rented out for short durations, typically less than 30 days.
31. Superhost: A status given by platforms like Airbnb to hosts who meet specific criteria for responsiveness, high ratings, and reliability.
32. Travel Insurance: Insurance guests can purchase to cover potential trip disruptions, cancellations, or emergencies.
33. Turnover: The process of preparing a property for the next guest after the current guest departs.
34. Vacation Rental: A fully-furnished property, such as a home or apartment, rented to guests for short-term stays.
35. VRBO (Vacation Rental By Owner): An online marketplace primarily for vacation rentals in the U.S.
36. Walk-Through: A guided tour, often virtual, where hosts showcase their property’s features and facilities.
37. Welcome Book: A guide provided by the host for guests, often including house rules, local tips, emergency contact numbers, and more.
38. Yield Management: A pricing strategy where rates are adjusted in real-time based on various factors, ensuring maximum revenue for hosts.
By familiarizing yourself with these terms, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the vibrant world of short-term rentals.