Industry

What is Vrbo Premier Host?

Updated 2026-05-28

Vrbo Premier Host is a special status awarded by the Vrbo online travel agency to its best-performing hosts. This free, invitation-only program recognizes property owners and managers who consistently deliver exceptional guest experiences.

To qualify, hosts must meet specific, data-driven criteria related to high booking acceptance rates, low owner-initiated cancellation rates, and a high average of positive guest reviews. Achieving Premier Host status grants hosts a special badge on their listings and increased visibility in traveler search results.

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How it works

Vrbo automatically evaluates host performance every quarter to determine eligibility for the Premier Host program. The criteria include maintaining a booking acceptance rate of 90% or higher, an owner-initiated cancellation rate of 1% or less, and an average guest review score of 4.3 stars or higher.

Additionally, hosts must have a minimum of three Vrbo reviews and have completed at least five bookings or 60 booked nights. Eligible hosts automatically receive the Premier Host badge on their listings and access to program benefits, including priority support.

Performance is continuously monitored, and the status must be maintained in each quarterly assessment.

Why it matters

The Premier Host status acts as a powerful signal of trust and quality for potential guests, often leading to increased bookings and revenue. The badge on a listing serves as social proof, assuring travelers that the host is reliable and their property is well-regarded.

This distinction provides a competitive advantage by boosting a listing's visibility in search rankings on Vrbo. Ultimately, it helps hosts build a strong reputation, which is critical for long-term success in the vacation rental market.

See the official website for current details.

Examples

  • A host with a condo in Miami consistently maintains a 95% booking acceptance rate and a 4.9-star average review score. After their fifth booking, Vrbo automatically grants them Premier Host status, making their listing more visible to travelers.
  • A property management company with 20 mountain cabins centralizes their operations to minimize cancellations. Their owner-initiated cancellation rate drops to 0.5%, helping them achieve Premier Host status for their entire portfolio and attract more group bookings.
  • During a quarterly review, a host's average rating dips from 4.4 to 4.2. They temporarily lose their Premier Host status and the associated search-ranking boost until they can improve their review score in the next assessment period.
  • A new host in a competitive market like San Diego focuses on responding quickly and providing excellent amenities. They meet all performance criteria within six months and earn the Premier Host badge, which helps their property stand out against more established listings.

Frequently asked questions

What are the benefits of being a Vrbo Premier Host?+
The main benefits include a Premier Host badge displayed on all your listings, increased visibility in search results, and access to a priority support phone line. These perks are designed to help you stand out to guests and secure more bookings.
Is there a fee to become a Vrbo Premier Host?+
No, there is no application process or fee to join the Premier Host program. It is a free, invitation-only program based entirely on meeting specific performance metrics that are automatically tracked by Vrbo.
How does Vrbo Premier Host compare to Airbnb Superhost?+
Both programs recognize top-tier hosts, but with different criteria. Vrbo Premier Host requires a 90% acceptance rate, <=1% cancellation rate, and a >=4.3-star rating. Airbnb Superhost requires a 90% response rate, <=1% cancellation rate, a >=4.8-star rating, and a minimum number of stays.
How often is Premier Host status evaluated?+
Vrbo assesses host accounts for Premier Host eligibility every quarter. The assessment dates are typically at the beginning of February, May, August, and November. Your performance over the preceding 365 days is reviewed during each assessment.
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