Guest Expectations When Booking a Vacation Rental

As a vacation rental owner or manager, it’s important to understand the expectations of your guests. After all, providing a great experience for your guests is key to getting positive reviews and attracting repeat business. So what do guests expect when booking a vacation rental?

Clean and well-maintained property

First and foremost, guests expect the property to be clean and well-maintained. This means that the property should be in good repair, with all appliances and systems functioning properly. It should also be free of clutter and debris, with clean floors, windows, and surfaces. A clean property is essential for guests to feel comfortable and at home during their stay.

Accurate property listing 

In addition to cleanliness, guests also expect the listing for the property to be accurate. This means that the description of the property, including its location, amenities, and features, should be accurate and up-to-date. If a property is advertised as having a pool, for example, guests expect to find a pool on the property when they arrive. If the property has been updated or renovated since the listing was created, it’s important to update the listing to reflect these changes.

Professional communication

Professional communication is another important expectation for guests. This means responding promptly to inquiries and requests, and being available to answer questions or provide assistance during the guest’s stay. It’s also important to be transparent and upfront about any policies or rules that may affect the guest’s stay, such as noise restrictions or check-in/check-out times.

Adequate amenities

Adequate amenities are also an important expectation for guests. This includes basic necessities like a fully equipped kitchen, working appliances, and comfortable furnishings. It may also include luxury amenities such as a hot tub or pool, depending on the property and the expectations set by the listing. It’s important to clearly communicate what amenities are included with the rental, and to ensure that these amenities are in good working order for the duration of the guest’s stay.

Safety and security

Safety and security are also important considerations for guests. This includes working smoke detectors and other safety features, as well as secure locks on doors and windows. It’s also a good idea to provide information to guests on emergency procedures, such as how to contact the owner or manager in case of an emergency.

Guests privacy

Privacy is another key expectation for guests. This means respecting the guest’s space and allowing them to enjoy their stay without interference or unwanted intrusions. It’s important to clearly communicate any policies or rules that may affect the guest’s privacy, such as whether or not the owner or manager will be on the property during the guest’s stay.

Flexibility

Flexibility with arrival and departure times can also be an important expectation for guests, depending on the property’s policies and the availability of the property. Some properties may allow for flexible check-in and check-out times, while others may have more strict policies. It’s important to communicate these policies clearly to guests and to be as accommodating as possible within the limits of the property’s availability.

Fair and reasonable pricing

Finally, guests expect fair and reasonable pricing for the location, amenities, and features of the property. This means setting a price that reflects the value of the rental, while also being competitive with similar properties in the area. It’s also important to be transparent about any additional fees or charges that may apply, such as cleaning fees or pet fees.

In summary, guests have a number of expectations when booking a vacation rental. By meeting these expectations, property owners and managers can provide a great experience for their guests and encourage positive reviews and repeat business.