5 ways to make a better first impression at your vacation rental

A key to managing a vacation rental well is earning positive reviews to increase new reservations, and a first impression is a lasting one. Follow these tips to give your guests the best possible experience from the moment they walk through the door.

1. Send guest information ahead of time

Don’t wait until your guests are on site before reaching out to them — you can start your hosting duties as soon as they’ve booked their stay. Send an email a few weeks before they arrive thanking them for booking and letting them know any useful information they might need.

Some property management systems will allow you to ask a few questions about the nature of their trip, then send them customized guidebooks with information about local activities, restaurants, or other resources. When you integrate RemoteLock with your booking software or property management system, you can manage your access control from one unified dashboard.

2. Offer seamless self-check-in

The last thing your guests want to do after a long trip is wait in line at a desk, meet with the property owner, or search for a hidden key. In one survey, Airbnb guests said that self-check-in was the second-most important feature in a rental.

With smart locks and RemoteLock, self-check-in is simple to set up and use. RemoteLock will automatically generate a unique code for each guest that activates when their stay begins. They can use the code whenever they arrive and throughout their stay, and as soon as their stay ends, the code expires.

3. Make sure your property is spotless

A clean rental sets the tone for the entire guest experience. Nothing leaves a better first impression than a spotless space where guests feel comfortable and welcomed. Before each guest's arrival, ensure your property is professionally cleaned, paying extra attention to high-touch areas like light switches, door handles, and remote controls. 

A tidy property suggests that you care about your guests' experience and maintain high standards. Offering a fresh, clean environment from the start ensures guests can relax and enjoy their stay without distractions, increasing the likelihood of positive reviews and return visits.

RemoteLock can help. With custom user groups, you can set up credentials for your regular cleaning crew that only work when the property is vacant. You can even send a notification to the housekeepers as soon as guests check out, so they can spruce up the property and get it ready for the next guest as quickly as possible.

4. Create a warm welcome with thoughtful amenities

Small details can make a big difference in how guests perceive your vacation rental. Thoughtful amenities, such as a welcome basket with snacks, local treats, or a personalized note, help guests feel valued from the moment they walk through the door. 

Consider offering practical items like toiletries or coffee supplies, as well as comfort-enhancing amenities such as cozy blankets or soft towels. These gestures show you’ve gone the extra mile to provide a memorable experience, which not only leaves a great first impression but can also encourage guests to leave glowing reviews and book future stays.

5. Set the right tone with smart lighting and the appropriate temperature

The right lighting and temperature can create an inviting atmosphere that instantly makes guests feel at home. Use smart lighting to ensure the property is well-lit upon arrival, particularly during evening check-ins. Consider installing dimmable or adjustable lights to let guests control the ambiance. 

Pair this with a smart thermostat, now available from RemoteLock and Honeywell, which allows you to automatically preset a comfortable temperature before guests arrive, then change it after they leave to increase efficiency. Whether it’s a cozy setting for the winter or cool relief in the summer, these small adjustments show attention to detail and can make a significant impact on first impressions.