Airbnb’s largest selling point is undoubted the ‘home away from home' feeling its properties give guests. But creating a homey, welcoming environment isn’t always easy… and without some welcoming touches, your beloved second home could leave guests feeling like they have stumbled into a hotel.

The cornerstone of that “home away from home” is a welcome guide, designed for guests to read upon arrival, and including all the information guests need to know during their stay. So, what should you include? Read on to find out more

Personalisation is Key

Small touches such as adding your guests' first names, and acknowledging their interests or plans are a great place to start. Begin by introducing yourself, the area, and some personal recommendations for things to do. This is crucial if you are not planning to exchange keys directly with guests and your exchanges are conducted entirely online. Know a way to dodge the queues? Let your guests know! Have any recommendations for local, quality eateries off the beaten track? Share them! Your guests will truly appreciate having insider knowledge of local attractions, and this is very likely to reflect itself well in reviews. 

Make your USPs stand out

Your guests will probably have booked your property based on its USPs. Does your property have an outdoor swimming pool or jacuzzi? Well, it might be worth reminding them here, and follow-up with any necessary housekeeping. If your property is suitable for disabled people, highlight its accessibility … you get the gist!

Lay Some Ground Rules

Here, it’s important to be firm but friendly. Remind guests that they are here to enjoy their stay but there are house rules to be followed. You might give a curfew for loud noises if your Airbnb is in a built-up area. Or make it clear if and when guests are allowed to bring their guests to the property. If your Airbnb is pet friendly, be clear about where pets are allowed e.g. no pets on furniture or upstairs. 

Try to be as concise as possible, so that guests are completely aware of your expectations, and reduce the chance of any awkward misunderstandings.

Show Off Your Home!

Guests are always keen to learn more about the history of where they are staying. So why not let them know, and give a brief introduction to your property and how it came to be yours. It’s worth bearing in mind that guests are more likely to care for a property as if it were their own when they know more about it. 

Keep Your Holiday Home Green

It’s vital we all do our part for the planet - and that doesn’t stop when we go on holiday! Be clear about how guests can recycle at your Airbnb, whether that’s leaving a designated recycling area on your property or providing instructions on how to get to your local recycling point. 

 Get Artsy

Don’t be afraid to put your own stamp on your welcome guide. As we’ve mentioned, the more personal and memorable your guide, the better! If your holiday home has a distinctive theme or personality, then why not reflect this in your guide? 

If you are comfortable, a photograph of yourself with family is a nice touch to feature alongside your introduction. Or, if you have a pet-friendly Airbnb, a picture of your own pets will be a welcoming sight to guests.

Staying Safe

Don’t forget to include an emergency contact number, and your maintenance staff, if you have any. It is also important to note phone numbers for your local doctors and hospital in case of emergencies. Guests should have clear points of contact for all possible incidents. Be sure to mention any potential hazards on the property and give details on the property's safety measures e.g. does your holiday home have a carbon monoxide detector installed?

It’s also worth providing information for appliances such as the TV, washing machine, and oven to avoid any mishaps. This will also save you those tiresome Airbnb message exchanges when a guest wants to put on a wash!

Hire a Property Manager

Here at Pass the Keys, we offer a fully managed service for property owners across 50 locations in the UK. Our comprehensive management package covers everything from property listing, check-in, cleaning and laundry services, and of course, welcome guides for our guests. As a Pass the Keys host, you can relax whilst we ensure your property is achieving its optimal income.

Find out more at www.passthekeys.co.uk