Three Ways to Create an Outstanding Vacation Rental Guest Experience

Your guests generally expect a level of service similar or superior to that of a hotel. Having a hospitality mindset can elevate the vacation rental guest experience and ultimately the success of your business. To take bookings to new heights, consider these simple but meaningful gestures.

1. Give a warm welcome

Make guests feel at home with thoughtful offerings. Renters are unfamiliar with your property and – most likely – the area. A welcome package can put guests at ease. Include instructions for home appliances – from the coffee pot to the garage door – and a list of nearby hotspots, attractions and transportation options.

For an extra touch, offer beverages or grab-and-go snacks that appease most dietary restrictions. The welcome package, in some instances, can also benefit from a personalized card. To enrich your property’s ambiance, feature fresh flowers, interesting art and sufficient lighting.

2. Make it personal

Catering to specific needs can be the difference between a good review and a great review.  Such needs are generally dependent on traveler type and circumstance.

For example, most vacationers travel in groups of two or more (a trend that plays into the advantages of short-term rentals). Providing adequate quantities of toiletries, linens, dishes and cutlery means guests can enjoy a vacation without the frustrations of divvying up items.  If children are staying, provide junior board games and mess-free activities.

Meanwhile, solo leisure and business travelers have other needs and interests. These independent traveler types are often one in the same. A recent Expedia study found that 43 percent of all business trips qualify as “bleisure,” or business trips that incorporate leisure time. To satisfy these guests, consider supplementing your property with solutions that go beyond high-speed Internet. Offer short novels, an easy-to-use clothes iron, stationary, writing utensils and a desk or table. Provide a few business cards so that guests can pass along your property’s information to colleagues.

3. Communicate effectively with guests

In the vacation rental industry, a first impression has little time to evolve. This means great communication – from the booking stage to post-stay dialogue – is essential. Easy interactions can translate to improved guest stays, reviews and repeat booking rates.

At every step of a stay, technology can help facilitate a seamless experience for all parties. Innovative solutions allow property managers to offer local coupons, or securely send information like WiFi passwords and door codes. At the same time, guests are able to adjust stay details and message property teams. These features can reduce guest stress and add an exciting twist to vacationing.

Designed with next-level engagement in mind, Kigo Guest Experience lets property managers send real-time communications, customize guest information, automate check-ins and checkouts, partner with local vendors and receive timely feedback.

To learn more about Kigo Guest Experience, schedule a free demo today!