One of the most common Questions people ask me when they find out that I have short-term rentals / vacation houses is “How can I be a good guest?” (Usually, they ask this after they tell me everything they believe hosts should do!!! 😊)
So, here you go – Susanna’s TOP TEN WAYS to be a GOOD GUEST
1) As a guest, you should TRIPLE read the listing before you book. Make sure you are willing to follow all the rules. DO NOT show up with any previously unannounced extra guests…don’t book a childfree place when you are bringing a 3 year old, and ffs, don’t SMOKE or Vape in a non-smoking residence.
2) DO NOT expect a host to bend the rules for you. This includes moving check-in/check-out times. You can ask politely, but DON’T expect it and don’t hold it against them if they don’t change it. Oftentimes another guest is checking out the same day you are checking in or one is checking in the same day you check out. Therefore, the host NEEDS every possible minute to clean and reset the house.
3) Don’t act like an entitled brat. If a host goes above and beyond, leave them a thank you note, a hostess gift, a card…and even a tip. This includes providing extra amenities and/or information helpful to your trip.
4) READ the home rules again on your way to check-in and also make sure EVERY ADULT in your group is well versed in the rules. If you aren’t supposed to move furniture or eat in the bedrooms….then DON’T do those things.
5) If something goes wrong (or gets broken or damaged), tell your host IMMEDIATELY and offer to pay for it. If you spill something on a carpet/couch/sheets/etc …report it ASAP so the host has the opportunity to start cleanup immediately and hopefully prevent permanent damage.
6) Don’t go where you aren’t welcome…rooms, drawers, cabinets…If something isn’t clearly labeled or marked for guest use, don’t use it. Don’t pick locks! Don’t pry open the garden shed door!
7) Don’t steal. Anything. Yes, that mug is really nice…but either get your own on Amazon or OFFER to buy it from the host. Be extra cautious not to take blankets/pillows/towels…etc. Yes, we DO notice and YES, the cost will be deducted from your deposit.
8) Communicate! Keep the host up to date with your check-in time, travel plans, daily activities, and check-out plans. Also, text your host when you want a restaurant recommendation or their opinion about a tourist site….we are happy to help! We even know some great spots you might miss if you don’t ask!
9) The home is going to be different than your home…..don’t start telling the host that “plates should be in that cabinet and dishwasher detergent should be kept on that shelf….” Embrace the new system during your stay! You might find that you like the host’s way better than your own!
10) BE NEAT and CLEAN. Keep the rental looking like it did when you checked it! Don’t leave junk and used items lying around…do your dishes! JUST BE A RESPONSIBLE ADULT!
Finally, don’t be an Asshat. Don’t make comments/jokes that are homophobic, racist, or culturally insensitive….you have NO idea who your host is, what they believe, who their family members are, and what they have been through in their lives.
Be kind and be friendly. Hosts are hosts because they enjoy what they do and welcoming people to their community. They also WELCOME your feedback and positive suggestions!