How to be a Great Host
Elle put together some easy steps every host can follow to prevent hosting from becoming more of a chore than a reward.
“Some of our most enthusiastic hosts are so dedicated to their guests having an exceptional stay that they’re challenged to find their own time and resources for themselves,” says Elle. “They’re givers and sometimes givers swing too far into that giving activity.”
Determine your goals
Are you hosting primarily to earn money? For companionship? To create more art or share the meals you enjoy preparing? Then it’s important to recognize and feel good about how hosting aligns with and supports these goals. For Elle, Airbnb hosting started as a means to keeping her apartment. She says that initial goal has evolved into being able to provide a great, affordable place to stay in the highly coveted West Village and give guests the opportunity to live like a New Yorker. “I’m proud to be able to share that.”
Surround yourself with resources
And by resources, Elle means those you can “call in a pinch” when, for instance, “you need to get keys to someone at 2 p.m. when you’re working in an office across town.” This includes a community of friends, like-minded neighbors, a cleaning service, or a few people who are willing to work part time or per diem, barter or take payment for cleaning, key hand-off and greeting when you are unable to do it yourself.
How to Be a Great Host
Being a great host is about creating a memorable experience for guests, one where they feel comfortable, welcomed, and taken care of. Here’s a guide with some essential tips and “life-saver” tricks to help you stand out as an exceptional host!
1. Communicate Clearly and Promptly
One of the biggest keys to guest satisfaction is communication. Responding quickly to messages and questions (ideally within an hour or two) builds trust from the start. Before guests arrive, provide clear instructions on everything from check-in to parking. If you won’t be immediately available, consider setting up an automated response with basic info—guests will appreciate knowing they’re not left waiting.
2. Anticipate Guest Needs
Think of the small details that make a stay more comfortable. Basic toiletries, extra blankets, a few snacks, and local recommendations are simple touches that can make guests feel at home. Providing essentials like coffee, tea, and a list of nearby grocery stores or takeout options shows you’re thinking of their needs.
Life-Saver Tip: Create a “starter kit” with all essentials in one place—this saves guests from searching and cuts down on your restocking time!
3. Emphasize Local Recommendations
Guests often choose vacation rentals to get a “local” experience. Go beyond the typical tourist spots and share your favorite local restaurants, parks, and hidden gems. This can be as simple as a handwritten note, a digital guidebook, or a quick welcome message with a few top picks.
Life-Saver Tip: Create a digital guidebook that’s easy to update with new places or seasonal events. Guests will love having everything at their fingertips!
4. Keep It Spotlessly Clean
Cleanliness is non-negotiable for guests. A sparkling, fresh space instantly reassures guests and sets the tone for a great stay. Make sure high-touch areas like remote controls, door handles, and light switches are thoroughly cleaned, and always leave fresh linens and towels.
Life-Saver Tip: Keep a cleaning checklist on hand, especially if you have a cleaning team. This ensures nothing gets overlooked and keeps your space consistent for every guest.
5. Be Thoughtful About Extras
Small, thoughtful touches like a bottle of water, a welcome note, or even a few snacks can go a long way in making guests feel special. If you know they’re celebrating something—a birthday or anniversary—consider adding a little extra surprise.
Life-Saver Tip: Stock a “welcome basket” with small, non-perishable treats or local goodies that guests can enjoy when they arrive. It’s an easy way to make a great first impression!
6. Prepare for the “What-Ifs”
Having a list of emergency contacts, instructions for unexpected situations (like a power outage), and the contact info for a local handyman will save the day in case something goes wrong. This gives guests peace of mind, knowing they have support if they need it.
Life-Saver Tip: Print a quick-reference guide with all emergency details and keep it in an easy-to-find spot. It’ll help guests feel prepared and give you one less thing to worry about!
7. Follow Up and Collect Feedback
After your guests check out, send a quick thank-you message and invite them to leave feedback. This not only shows you value their opinion but can also help you improve with each stay.
By following these steps, you’ll build a reputation as a reliable and thoughtful host—one that guests are excited to recommend and return to! Great hosting is all about anticipating needs, adding personal touches, and being genuinely helpful.
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