When guests research the ideal place to book, they look for certain amenities. They may choose one place over another specifically based on what amenities are offered.
There are certain perks that can really make a location stand out from the rest and keep guests coming back. These amenities might include things like a jacuzzi tub, a pool, or a media room.
But, in this blog, we’re not focusing on all of the extras you could add to your short-term rental to help drive up occupancies. Instead, we’ll be discussing the amenities that guests have come to expect.
These are the “basic” amenities that every rental should offer. If your property doesn’t have them, your guests will be unlikely to return. Keep reading to learn more.
1. 24-hour availability
Guests want to be able to check-in at any time. They don’t want to have to worry about what time they’re going to arrive at their short-term rental. They want it to be easy. They also want to know that someone is available 24/7 in case they need anything, or something goes wrong.
24-hour availability can be a lot for a short-term rental to offer, but it can be simplified to make your life easier. Check-ins can be done virtually. Smart locks can make it easy for guests to get into the property without the need for a key transfer. 24-hour support can be offered through a property management company as well, letting you off the hook from handling late night or early morning calls and messages.
2. A stocked kitchen
Whether you have a kitchenette or a full kitchen, guests will expect some kitchen amenities. They want to have a few options for heating up food and keeping it cool. You should also have a coffee maker, as this has become a standard. In addition, make sure there are some dishes available, a can opener, bottle opener, corkscrew, pots, and pans (if there’s a stove), glasses (including wine glasses), and coffee mugs. It’s also good to have some pantry staples like salt, pepper, sugar, creamer, tea, and coffee.
3. Local recommendations
Guests that are new to the area will be looking for recommendations. At the very least, include a listing of local restaurants that they can order from. Try to include a few other helpful resources as well, like a list of local grocery stores or shopping centers.
4. Property maintenance and cleanliness
Guests expect to stay in a short-term rental that is kept in excellent condition. They don’t want to stay somewhere if things are broken or unclean. They expect the property to be pristine upon arrival. Keeping up with maintenance can be a lot of work, but when you partner with a trusted property management company, they can ensure your property always looks its best.
5. Up-to-date technology
Televisions are a mainstay in short-term rentals. Guests want access to either cable TV or streaming services, so be sure you offer one or both of them. Also, make sure that you have Wi-Fi on your property as that has become a standard as well. In addition, guests will want outlets near their beds to plug in their devices.
6. Parking at no charge
Most guests expect there to be parking on-site and at no charge. This may not always work out, depending on where your short-term rental is located. But, if you’re able to offer free parking, it can help improve bookings.
7. Ironing board with an iron
An ironing board and iron are pretty basic amenities to include in your rental, they’re especially helpful for the traveling business person. Make sure to have these available for your guests. Another thing to consider, if your short-term rental offers longer stays, is providing laundry facilities. If guests are staying more than a couple of days, they’re going to want the option to wash their clothes.
8. Basic toiletries
Guests typically pack their own toiletries but will inevitably forget something. You can go out of your way to add some extra toiletries for those just-in-case moments. Guests may not expect this, but at the very least, some will be hoping for soap, shampoo, and conditioner. They’ll also want a hairdryer available and toilet paper. Towels can also be beneficial, although some short-term rentals still request that guests bring their own linens and towels, so it’s not too abnormal if you don’t have these available. Just make sure your guests know what you stock and what they need to bring with them.
As you can see some of these are pretty basic things that we’ve learned to rely on in our day-to-day lives. Those are the items that guests will expect when they arrive at a short-term rental. If you’d like help keeping up with the daily demands of managing a short-term rental, please reach out to us: https://www.propertymanagementinc.com/. We’d be happy to assist you.
