If you’re planning to turn your home into a short-term rental, congratulations! Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can help you earn extra income while letting you share your space with travelers. But before you welcome your first guest, there’s some work to be done. Preparing your home for short-term rentals isn’t just about having a clean room and fresh sheets. It’s about creating an experience that makes people leave 5-star reviews and recommend your place to others. This guide will walk you through all the steps to get your home ready and even help you go the extra mile to stand out.

Step 1: Cleanliness is Non-Negotiable

First things first: your home must be spotless. Guests expect the same level of cleanliness as a hotel, if not better. A clean space shows you care, and it makes guests feel comfortable staying in your home.

  • Deep Clean Everything: Wash the windows, vacuum carpets, mop floors, and dust every surface. Even wash the ones you don’t think anyone will notice.
  • Sanitize High-Touch Areas: Door handles, light switches, remote controls, and any commonly used items should be wiped down with disinfectants.
  • Freshen Up Linens: Provide clean bed sheets, pillowcases, and towels for every guest. If they look worn, replace them.
  • Declutter: Remove personal items, like family photos or piles of mail. Guests want the place to feel like theirs while they’re there.

Extra Touch:

  • Consider hiring a professional cleaning service between guests, especially if you’re short on time or want a guarantee of a deep clean.

Step 2: Safety First

Making sure your home is safe for guests is one of the most important things you could do. Address potential hazards and provide everything they’ll need to feel secure and protect you from a potential lawsuit.

  • Check for Hazards: Fix loose stairs, wobbly railings, or exposed wires before your listing goes live.
  • Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: These devices are essential and should have fresh batteries.
  • Add a First Aid Kit: A small kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers can be a thoughtful touch for guests.
  • Secure Your Space: If you’re renting a room in your home rather than the whole property, make sure guests can lock their doors for privacy.

Insider Advice:

  • Share emergency contact numbers and instructions for things like shutting off the water or finding the fire extinguisher. A laminated guide near the entrance can make this info easy to find.

Step 3: Stock Up on Essentials

Guests love it when they don’t have to worry about the basics during their stay. Think about the little things people forget to bring or might run out of during their trip.

  • Toiletries: Shampoo, soap, toothpaste, and a spare toothbrush are appreciated.
  • Kitchen Basics: Salt, pepper, sugar, coffee, and tea go a long way in making guests feel at home.
  • Extras: Provide cleaning supplies like sponges, dish soap, and paper towels. Places with washing machines should offer detergent.

Going the Extra Mile:

  • Leave a small welcome basket with snacks, a bottle of water, or local goodies. It’s a small touch that makes a big impression.

Step 4: Create a Comfortable Setup

Comfort is key to a great guest experience. Even if your space is small, adding cozy touches will help guests feel at home.

  • Invest in a Good Bed: Don’t skimp on the mattress or pillows. A good night’s sleep is often the difference between a 4-star and a 5-star review.
  • Check the Temperature: Make sure your heating and cooling systems work properly. Provide fans or extra blankets if necessary.
  • Lighting Matters: Ensure there is adequate lighting. Soft, warm light bulbs create a more welcoming atmosphere.
  • Create a Seating Area: Even in a small space, a comfy chair or small sofa can make guests feel more relaxed.

Extra Touch:

  • Hang blackout curtains or blinds in the bedroom to ensure guests can get a good night’s sleep, even if the sunlight's strong.

Step 5: Make It Easy to Navigate

Your home might seem straightforward to you, but guests need clear instructions and guidance to feel at ease.

  • Provide a Welcome Guide: Include Wi-Fi passwords, house rules, and instructions for appliances (especially tricky ones like the coffee maker).
  • Label Light Switches and Remotes if their functions aren’t obvious.
  • Give Clear Check-In/Out Instructions: Use a keyless entry system if possible. It’s one less thing for guests to worry about. It also allows you to easily control who has access to your home.

Extra Touch:

  • Include information about local attractions, restaurants, and public transportation. Guests will appreciate not having to do as much research themselves!

Step 6: Check Your Listing

Your online listing is how potential guests will decide if they’re staying at your place, so take the time to make it shine.

  • Use High-Quality Photos: Use clean and bright images of the home, both inside and out. Take photos during the day and focus on well-lit shots of each room.
  • Write a Detailed Description: Mention all the amenities you offer, from free parking to Wi-Fi speed. Honesty is key. Don’t oversell, or guests may feel disappointed.
  • Be Clear on House Rules: If you don’t allow smoking, parties, or pets, make sure it’s stated clearly in your listing.

Insider Advice:

  • Look at similar listings in your area for inspiration. What do popular hosts emphasize in their photos or descriptions?

Step 7: Go Above and Beyond

To stand out from the crowd, think about small extras that go beyond the basics. These thoughtful touches can make your home memorable for guests.

  • Add Entertainment: Provide books, board games, and streaming subscriptions like Netflix for guests to enjoy.
  • Highlight the Season: Decorate with subtle touches depending on the time of year. You could decorate with a pumpkin in the fall or fresh flowers in the spring.
  • Leave a Personal Note: A handwritten welcome note can go a long way in making guests feel special.
  • Be Available: Answer guest questions promptly and be friendly in your communication.

One Last Touch:

  • Offer unique experiences, like creating a list of favorite local spots or suggesting a nearby hiking trail. Guests will love feeling like they’re getting insider knowledge.