Airbnb, VRBO and short-term rentals
Bookkeeping for short-term rental hosts
Platform payouts don't match your bookings. Fees, refunds and taxes get netted out before the money arrives. We set up the books so each property's real numbers show up.
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Why the books get messy
Payouts are net of fees and sometimes bundle several stays. Cleaning fees, supplies and repairs come from different cards. Some places charge occupancy taxes, and the rules depend on the town and platform.
What we track
Gross bookings, platform fees and payouts, per property. Cleaning, supplies, utilities, mortgage interest and repairs. Anything collected for taxes shown separately from income.
Taxes
How rental income is reported depends on your situation. Ask a tax professional. We keep the books they'll need.
Numbers hosts should see
Income by property and platform, platform fees, cleaning and supplies, utilities, repairs and nights booked. A property that looks busy can lose money after fees and cleaning, and only separate tracking shows it.
Payouts are not income
Platforms deposit net amounts after fees and sometimes taxes. We record the gross booking, the platform fee and any collected occupancy tax separately, then match the deposit. Occupancy and lodging taxes vary by state and place, so confirm what applies with the platform and your tax professional.
Repairs, furnishings and personal use
Repairs, furniture and improvements are treated differently for taxes, and days used personally can matter. We keep a record so your tax professional can decide.
Related
- Bookkeeping health check
- Bookkeeping guides
- Landlords and small rentals
- Bookkeeping home
- Profit margin and markup calculator
General information, not legal or tax advice. Rules change; confirm with the agency, lender or your professional. Updated October 2026.
FAQ
Common questions
Do you handle occupancy tax filings?
We can talk about it. Rules vary by town and platform, so confirm requirements with the town and your accountant.
Can you track multiple properties?
Yes. Each property gets its own tracking.
Do you work with Airbnb reports?
Yes. We reconcile platform payout reports against your bank deposits.
Can you handle several properties?
Yes. We track each property separately and show one summary.
Do you track occupancy taxes?
We record what is collected and paid. Which taxes apply is a question for the platform and a tax professional.
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