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 US: Luxury vacation home investment platform Equity Residences has launched a new direct booking website designed to offer travellers access to a curated portfolio of luxury vacation homes across Europe, the United States and other high-demand destinations.
The platform, available here features high-end villas and residences with premium amenities, detailed property descriptions, real-time availability and direct access to concierge-style support. The company said the new channel allows it to manage pricing, service and brand consistency more effectively than through third-party platforms.
Equity Residences said one motivation behind the launch is the rising cost of booking through major rental platforms, where additional fees can increase the total price for guests. By comparison, the firm said direct booking provides clearer pricing and a closer working relationship with its service team. It cited a Mykonos property listed at $20,606 on a major platform, compared with $19,510 when booked directly, as an example of potential cost differences.
The company operates luxury vacation homes as part of its Equity Platinum Funds and provides full property management and guest services, including housekeeping and travel coordination. The new booking website is open to both fund investors and non-investor travellers.
Marina Salley, head of investor relations at Equity Residences, said the platform allows the business to shape its brand more intentionally and offer “transparent direct-to-consumer pricing” while supporting plans to expand further into Europe.
The launch comes as the global online travel booking market continues to grow. Industry forecasts suggest the sector could reach more than $700 billion in 2025 and as much as $1.7 trillion by 2034. The vacation rental segment is expected to expand from roughly $175 billion in 2024 to nearly $400 billion by 2032, reflecting ongoing demand for digital-first booking and professionally managed private accommodation.
Highlights:
Equity Residences releases new direct-booking website offering access to its luxury property portfolio
Move positions the company as a competitor to major online booking platforms, with transparent pricing and no third-party fees
Launch comes as the global online travel booking market approaches USD 700 billion
The new site is open to investors and non-investors, expanding Equity Residences’ reach beyond its co-ownership model
