STR Operators Pay Over $1 Billion Annually in OTA Fees on Repeat Guests

1/26/2026

A new hostAI analysis reveals that short-term rental operators lose over $1 billion annually in commissions to online travel agencies (OTAs) for repeat guests. Examining 231,150 bookings from 115 operators worldwide, the study found repeat guest revenue often remains on platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com, resulting in ongoing commission fees of 12–20%. Repeat guests make up 1–26% of total revenue, with 77% booked via OTAs. Operators with strong direct booking channels retain more repeat revenue, while those relying on OTAs lose up to 87%. Direct bookings encourage loyalty, with guests returning 28.3% of the time versus 8.9% through OTAs. hostAI emphasizes that clear brand positioning, incentives for direct booking, and post-stay communication are key to reducing revenue leakage and boosting long-term profitability.

Travel Daily News (01/21/26) Vicky Karantzavelou