How to get your property ready for its first guests

If you’re planning to start with short-term rental, these are the things you shouldn’t forget.

1. Try a stay for yourself

Before your first guests arrive, try spending at least one night at the property. You’ll check that the heating, hot water, internet and appliances work. You’ll also notice small things that are easy to miss on an ordinary visit.

Can you park comfortably and find the entrance in the dark, for example? Is there a socket by the bed? Is there enough room in the bathroom to put things down?

Details like these decide how guests feel during their stay.

2. Make arrival simple

Before they set off, guests should know where to park, how to reach the property and where to collect the keys.

A key box or smart lock can be a practical solution, but it isn’t essential. What matters is that the way in is reliable and the instructions are easy to follow.

We recommend preparing short instructions with photos, especially if the property is harder to reach.

3. Provide the equipment guests expect

Clean bed linen, towels, toilet paper, soap and basic kitchen equipment should go without saying.

Also check the condition of the mattresses, that the lights work, and that there’s enough crockery and equipment for the number of guests. If you offer accommodation for eight people, it should really be ready for eight.

You don’t have to buy expensive extras. Cleanliness, things that work and well-thought-out equipment matter more.

4. Set clear house rules

Guests should know in advance whether pets, smoking or parties are allowed. Also set out quiet hours, the maximum number of guests, and check-in and check-out times.

Include this information in the listing and repeat it in the pre-arrival instructions.

Clear rules help prevent misunderstandings and protect your property.

5. Don’t forget the paperwork

Before you start renting, check which obligations apply to you. These may include guest registration, the local accommodation tax, reporting foreign guests and other requirements related to running accommodation.

Check the conditions with your municipal or town office and, if needed, talk them through with an accountant.

It’s better to sort these things out before your first booking.

6. Record the condition of the property

Before the first stay, arrange a thorough clean and photograph the condition of the rooms, furniture, appliances and other important equipment.

Prepare an inventory too. If something later goes missing or gets damaged, you’ll have something to compare it with.

It’s a good idea to use the same inspection system after later stays.

7. Prepare a simple guide for guests

Guests appreciate finding all the important information in one place.

Prepare short instructions for using the heating, internet and appliances. Add contacts in case of problems, check-out information and recommendations for trips, restaurants and activities nearby.

In Turiec you can point guests to hiking trails, cycling trips or local attractions, depending on where your property is.

The first stay is the beginning, not the end of the preparation

After your first guests leave, go through their feedback. You’ll find out what worked and what’s still worth changing. Even small changes can make the next visitors more comfortable.

Want to start renting without unnecessary hassle?

We’ll help you prepare the property and set up the listings, prices and house rules, and then take care of managing the rental. We start with a free, no-obligation consultation.