The vacation rental industry is no stranger to change, but 2025 proved to be an important year for short-term rental (STR) operators looking to streamline operations, increase revenue, and deliver an exceptional guest experience. With shifting guest expectations, rising operational costs, and tightening regulations, technology once again took center stage as the key to success.
Here’s a closer look at the vacation rental technology that defined 2025 and how it transformed property management for the better.
Smart Locks: Keyless Convenience Meets Enhanced Security
Smart locks remained at the heart of STR operations in 2025 and became a critical component of guest convenience and operational control. Managers used unique, time-sensitive codes to automate guest access, eliminate manual check-ins, and boost security.
This upgrade wasn’t simply about convenience. By pairing smart locks with smart video doorbells, STR operators could remotely verify guest check in, monitor arrivals, and enhance property safety without infringing on privacy.
Predictive HVAC Maintenance and Smart Thermostats: Comfort Meets Cost Savings
The growing demand for energy-efficient vacation rentals meant that smart thermostats continued to rise in popularity, mainly thanks to their ability to balance guest comfort with optimized energy use. However, it was predictive HVAC maintenance that stole the spotlight.
With machine learning, smart thermostats detect HVAC anomalies before a full breakdown, allowing for proactive repairs and uninterrupted guest comfort. Combined with automated schedules triggered by booking data, STR operators saved significantly on energy costs while meeting sustainability targets.
Noise Monitoring Technology: Peace of Mind for Managers and Neighbors
Non-invasive noise monitoring solutions became a go-to tool for STR property managers navigating noise complaints and community regulations. These devices measure decibel levels without recording conversations, alerting managers when noise exceeds acceptable thresholds.
In 2025, as local regulations became more stringent, particularly in urban markets, this tech proved essential for compliance, protecting neighborhood harmony without compromising guest privacy.
Video Doorbells for STRs: Visual Verification and Added Assurance
Smart video doorbells continued their upward trend in 2025, with features like motion-triggered alerts, live video feeds, and two-way communication offering property managers a reliable way to manage access and verify arrivals.
In high-turnover environments, this vacation rental technology became especially valuable for remote check-ins and security monitoring during unattended periods between guest stays.
Smart Water Management: Stopping Leaks Before They Start
Water damage remains one of the costliest issues in property management. In 2025, smart water sensors became standard in many STR properties. These systems alert managers in real time when a leak is detected, minimizing property damage and reducing insurance claims.
Strategically placed under sinks, around HVAC units, and near water heaters, these devices helped operators take a proactive approach to maintenance, saving money and improving long-term asset performance.
A Year of Tech Consolidation and Guest Experience Optimization
Underlying many of these technology trends in 2025 was a growing desire among STR operators to streamline their tech stacks. Integrating vacation rental technologies, such as HVAC, access, noise, and water management, into a single central property management system (PMS) enabled operators to oversee all aspects of property performance from a single dashboard.
This shift wasn’t just operational, it was guest-focused. Property managers increasingly viewed guest experience technology as an investment in retention and reputation. Automating early check-ins, ensuring optimal arrival temperatures, and enhancing perceived safety all contributed to glowing reviews and repeat bookings.
As we head into 2026, the STR operators that thrive will be those who continue to embrace innovation, both to solve problems and create extraordinary guest experiences with every booking.
Want to find out more on how property managers use technology for their vacation rental business? Listen to Molly Reardon’s episode with the VRMA Arrival Podcast as she discusses bridging the gap between being a vendor and a host.
