History of Vrbo
Vrbo, short for 'Vacation Rentals by Owner,' was founded in 1995 by David and Sarah Clouse as a way for property owners to directly connect with travelers looking for vacation homes. The website allowed owners to list their properties for rent, bypassing traditional rental agencies. The platform quickly grew, establishing itself as one of the leading online vacation rental services, catering to travelers seeking unique, home-like accommodations around the world.
In 2006, Vrbo was acquired by HomeAway, a larger vacation rental platform, further expanding its reach and resources. Over time, the combined entity began to dominate the short-term rental market, offering a wide range of vacation homes, apartments, and cottages. In 2015, Expedia Group, a global travel company, acquired HomeAway, solidifying Vrbo's place in the mainstream travel industry.
By 2019, Vrbo began rebranding itself to emphasize family-friendly vacation homes, differentiating itself from competitors like Airbnb, which had a broader focus. With the backing of Expedia Group and a renewed marketing strategy, Vrbo continues to be a prominent player in the online travel market, helping travelers find personalized and comfortable lodging options for their vacations.