Recommended Devices

Looking for the best smart home devices for Airbnb, Vrbo, and other short-term rentals? This curated list highlights the devices that consistently perform well in real-world rental properties and integrate cleanly with Rental Home Automator (RHA) for fully automated, calendar-based control. Whether you’re outfitting a single vacation rental or scaling a multi-property portfolio, these recommendations focus on reliability, guest safety, ease of setup, and long-term durability.

Our top picks include smart locks, Matter & Z-Wave switches, leak sensors, water-valve actuators, smart thermostats, and outdoor lighting products that reduce property damage, save energy, and eliminate manual guest coordination. Each device has been tested for connectivity stability, remote management, and compatibility with hosts’ most common platforms—including SmartThings, Hubitat, Home Assistant, and native manufacturer apps.

If you’re searching for the best automation setup for short-term rentals, this collection gives you a proven foundation:

• Automate access codes with dependable smart locks

• Protect your property with leak sensors and water-shutoff devices

• Cut HVAC costs with vacation-rental-friendly thermostats

• Manage lighting, switches, and heavy-duty appliances remotely

• Build a future-proof setup with Thread, Matter, and Z-Wave

Every device featured here is selected because it works smoothly across a wide range of rental environments and supports the hands-off, guest-triggered automations that modern hosts expect. As we continue testing new Matter, Thread, Zigbee, and Z-Wave products, this list will stay updated with the most reliable options for rental automation.