Renting out your property can be a lucrative venture, but the fear of potential damage might be holding you back. What if guests don`t treat your space with the respect it deserves? What happens when parties go wild on your property?
Don’t let these worries discourage you from entering this business. In this post, we will address your fears and provide you with effective steps that ensure your property remains in the best condition.
Set adequate pricing
Maintaining appropriate pricing for your short-term rental is a key approach to preventing damages and theft. Pricing that reflects your rental’s value attracts respectful guests while deterring those who might not treat the property with care.
To learn about raising prices while maintaining good occupancy, we will cover this topic in future posts. Stay connected with us on social media to receive alerts.
Screen Guests Carefully
Before confirming any booking (unless an instant book setting is enabled), take a moment to vet potential guests. Ask for details about their stay`s purpose and review past host feedback if available.
With instant bookings like on booking.com, contact guests after the reservation to reiterate house rules. For example, if parties are prohibited, mention the requirement to sign the registration document outlining the rules. This reminder can discourage those planning parties from staying and prompt them to look for accommodation elsewhere.
Set Clear Expectations
Make sure to communicate your house rules prior to or upon check-in. Outline all possible charges for damages clearly and provide a detailed explanation of policies regarding parties, smoking, and pets. And request guests` signatures upon check-in. When guests have a clear understanding of your expectations, they tend to show greater respect for your property.
Use a Security Deposit
Implementing a refundable security deposit can act as a deterrent against careless behavior. State the conditions under which the deposit can be withheld for damages. Some guests don’t like to be charged for a security deposit, but you don’t want those guests at your place anyway. There is a reason why all hotels with no exceptions have this policy.
Provide Essential Information
Create a digital guidebook for your guests that includes instructions on how to use appliances and devices. When the guests are well-informed, they`re less likely to cause accidents. Moreover, this guidebook will prevent a lot of unnecessary calls in the middle of the night with questions like, “How do I use X?”
Communication is Key
Engage with your guests soon after their reservation to establish a rapport. Inquire about their requirements, such as assistance with directions or recommendations for local attractions. When there is a human connection guests are very unlikely to leave your place messy. In fact, they are more likely to tidy up, dispose of trash, and so on. Because now they know you personally, you’re not just another host, you’re a friend.
Sustain this connection throughout their stay. Create an environment where they feel comfortable reporting any concerns promptly, as this helps to address minor issues at an early stage before they escalate. Being responsive also shows that you care about their comfort.
Regular Inspections
When possible, consider performing inspections during routine cleaning. Offer each guest an add-on cleaning service provided daily or weekly. Regular cleaning maintains your property in good condition and reduces the amount of cleaning after checkout. Additionally, as your cleaner visits the property, they can alert you to any issues.
Tech Solutions
Invest in smart home technology that allows you to watch over your property remotely. Cameras, noise-monitoring devices, and smart locks provide peace of mind, helping you to keep an eye on everything when you`re away.
Conclusion
Renting out your property doesn’t have to involve unnecessary risks. By implementing these solutions, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your space. A combination of guest selection, friendly communication, house rules, and smart tech solutions will keep your property safe.