News
How to Get Rockstar Guest Reviews on Your Rental Home?
If you want a consistent flow of guest bookings, 5-star hosts know you need to provide a 5-star experience. The question is: How do you do that? Well, as experts in creating guest experiences, we happen to have a few tips and tricks up our sleeve. So, here are some of our best 5-star tips on prepping your home for your next guest.
The Profile
If you want 5-star reviews, start with the profile. Your profile is your chance to set clear expectations, and the best way to do that is through description and honesty. Describe your home in detail, use clear and updated pictures, be upfront and honest about ground rules, and be sure to mention the basics.
Is your place:
- Handicap accessible?
- Child-friendly?
- Smoker-friendly?
- Pet-friendly?
- Equipped with heat?
- Equipped with A/C?
(Example of an Airbnb Superhost Profile)
While these may seem like minute details, for many guests these can make or break a rental. Setting up clear expectations in your profile will help ensure your home is a comfortable fit.
The Set Up
Guests may choose rentals over hotels, but they still expect your rental to be spotless and stocked with home essentials. Here’s a good list of items to start with:
Kitchen |
Bathroom |
Bedroom |
|
|
|
While this is a good place to start, the list goes on. Don’t wait until the last minute to go shopping. If you’re busy during the week and don’t have time, services like aBundle make prepping your place easy by saving you time, effort and money.
Personal Items vs. Public Items
Welcoming travelers from across the globe is one of the most exciting parts of being a host. However, it’s still your home, and there can be a certain level of discomfort when it comes to your personal items.
So how do you draw the line between what to leave out and what to store away? Try asking yourself, “will these items add value to my guests’ stay and experience?” If the answer is ‘yes’, keep the items out and in plain sight. If the answer is ‘no’ store them away. These two short lists can help get you started:
Items for Guests to Use:
- Guide books
- City maps
- Movies
- Videogames
- Books
- Cell phone chargers
- Important phone numbers
Items to Store Away from Guests:
- Laptops
- Cell phone
- Jewelry
- Medication
- Hygiene products
- Clothing
Above and Beyond
As a host, there are tiny things that can be done to help better the experience of a guest. And often times, it’s the attention to these tiny details that will help drive a 5-star review.
When it comes to the bedroom, consider installing blackout drapes or including an eye mask. Make sure to have an alarm clock beside the bed and a closet stocked full of extra blankets and pillows, especially during the winter months. For the kitchen, consider leaving a 6-pack of beer in the fridge or maybe a bottle of local wine on the counter. If it’s cold, hot chocolate in the pantry can help make the guest experience feel extra special. In the living room, make sure your WIFI password is easily accessible. Open windows to invite fresh air. Put out a vase of fresh flowers to help leave a warm, aromatic scent. Be creative — these small details that can make a big difference!
Too busy rushing around to focus on the tiny stuff? With services like aBundle to help you prep your place, putting your attention in the details has never been easier.
Damage Control & Communication
No matter how much you prepare and plan, sometimes things can go awry. When it comes to protecting your home against damages, be sure to take photos of your space and appliances before guests arrive. In the event something breaks or is damaged, you’ll want to take photos of that as well.
Additionally, prevent unwanted circumstances by providing an easy flow of communication. Leave your phone number in plain sight in case any issues arise. If you’re unavailable during a guests’ stay, consider using a service like Aviva IQ to automatically respond to your guests’ questions regarding booking, arrival and departure times.
For more information on damage protection, review Airbnb’s “Peace of Mind” Guarantee.
Think you’re ready to provide a 5-star guest experience? With these tips and tricks, a 5-star review is only a stay away. And remember, using a service like aBundle can ensure you’re fully prepared, stocked and ready to host. Happy Hosting!