8 Tips for a Seamless Check-in Process in Vacation Rentals

When it comes to your vacation rental business, first impressions matter. Before accepting guests to your vacation rental property, make sure to establish a seamless check-in. Your goal should be to automate as many tasks as possible, not only for convenience but also to come across as a professional.

In this guide, we'll help you take the guesswork out when preparing to accept guests. Whether you choose a physical check-in or a smart-lock check-in to maintain security, we'll share tips on how to save time and ensure a smooth process for your visitors. So buckle up, and let's get started!

Tips for a Smooth Check-in and Check-out Process

1. Avoid Restrictive Check-ins

Many vacation rental owners have strict rules regarding their check-in process. For example, they only allow check-ins on Saturdays. This can be beneficial for them since they only need to show up once weekly, but it sucks for guests.

In today's travel scene, these rules simply can't apply. That's because travelers juggle multiple commitments to make room for vacations, such as work, kids, flights, and budget. By limiting your check-in process to specific days, you narrow your audience to a very exclusive number of guests, which won't be sustainable in the long run.

Instead, you should offer a seven-day per week check-in. While this can be more challenging if you provide check-in with a physical key, the more days you accept guests, the more appealing your property will be.

Airbnb smart locks for self-check-in

2. Communicate Clearly With Guests Before Arrival

Before your guests arrive, you must be a responsive host, answering all their questions. Providing check-in instructions, either for self-check-in or check-in with physical contact, is vital. Use all available communication channels to send guests pre-arrival messages. Here's what to include:

• Your property's address
• Driving instructions
• Check-in time
• Parking instructions
• Contact information to reach you
• A list of all provided amenities (such as linens, towels)
• House rules
• If it's a self-check-in process, let them know where they can find the key and include access codes to open doors (or an access gate)

If you can, include photos (or even a video) of the different steps of the self-check-in process. Additionally, you can include a photo of what your property looks like from the front or the entrance.

Airbnb lockbox and smart locks for a convenient check-in solution

3. Add a Self Check-in Option

If you wish to avoid being physically present during check-ins, you can always give the option of self-check-in with smart locks or a secure lockbox. Airbnb smart locks are easily managed from your smartphone, and you can change access codes remotely anytime. They are installed on your door handle and give you peace of mind for a smooth check-in process.

On the other hand, Airbnb lockboxes are durable storage devices where you can keep your keys safe. Guests can access it with a lock code. The market has different lockbox models, but the most common ones are push-button locks, wheel lockboxes, and dial lockboxes.

4. Welcome Guests With Warmth

Once guests arrive, greet them with warmth and enthusiasm. Make them feel right at home with a kind smile and an approachable attitude. To make them feel even more valued and appreciated, offer a welcome package with local delicacies, such as chocolates, wines, and flowers.

You can also add a handwritten note to add a sense of personalization, as well as a helpful guidebook with information on local attractions. Alternatively, you can prepare a house manual (either print or digital) offering a tour of your property and forward it to guests before arrival. This allows them to read it conveniently at the time that suits them best.

Airbnb lockbox and smart locks to gain access

5. Follow-up After Check-in

Follow-ups are great to ensure guests have everything they need after check-in. Especially if you're offering a self-check-in option and haven't received any updates from them, this is a stellar way to tell them, "I'm here for you".

If guests stay for one night, send the follow-up the same evening. If they stay for a few nights, follow them up the next morning.

6. Leave Rental Instructions

If you have specific instructions for guests, include them in your house manual. Here are some examples:

• Where they can find fresh linen or extra blankets
• Wi-Fi passwords
• How to use electronic devices
• Sound system and TV instructions
• How to warm water or use the thermostat
• How to use special appliances such as the BBQ area
• How to use recycling bins and where to empty the trash outside
• How to turn on and off the AC every time they leave the house

This is key to ensuring a seamless experience for both you and your guests, saving you time and expenses.

Check-in instructions for Airbnb lockbox and Airbnb smart lock

7. Provide Guests With Local Suggestions

Who doesn't love local recommendations? We know your guests do! Take advantage of the opportunity to advise guests on restaurants, markets, attractions, fairs, or local transportation. This will make you look like a caring Airbnb host and encourage positive reviews.

You can even create tourism packages in collaboration with local brands and earn a commission. For instance, make allies with a local wine distillery and offer guests guided tours and wine tasting. These catered experiences provide a holistic stay and share well-hidden gems that'll wow your guests.

8. Have Clear Instructions for Check-out

Apart from check-in information, you should also provide guests with a straightforward check-out process. Will you be present at the check-out? Do you want them to leave the rental keys inside? Are there specific instructions you'd like them to follow?

Make sure guests know these beforehand. A simple text message will do. Don't forget to show your gratitude for their trust. Thank them for choosing your property, and urge them to visit again or leave a positive review.

Airbnb smart lock access code for key security

Offer Guests a Premium Experience With Seamless Check-ins

Great stays begin with seamless systems. To provide guests with a stellar experience from start to finish, spend time removing any friction from their check-in and check-out processes. Start by establishing stellar communication with guests at all times.

And what better way than having your own book-direct website? Nothing says more personalization than guests being able to reach you directly without the middleman. Message them, answer their inquiries, and personalize their stay to turn them into loyal customers.

At Houfy, we help you set up your book direct website without the hefty OTA fees. With over 50,000 guests in our network looking for direct booking solutions, you can maximize your profits and empower your vacation rental business. List your property today!