Sites like VRBO and AirBnB make it easier than ever for people to rent out their homes for short periods of time to earn a little extra money. Whether you\u2019ve got a furnished property you\u2019re not living in or you just have a spare bedroom you never use, these sites are a great alternative to renting your space long term or putting your property on the market. But there\u2019s still a good amount of work you need to do before listing your property for guests to stay in.<\/p>\n
Here are our tips for preparing your home for short term renters:<\/p>\n
Clean Your Home<\/b> Keep Everything in Tip Top Shape<\/b> Stock Your Cabinets<\/b> Outline Details and Responsibilities<\/b>
\nEssentially, you\u2019re turning your home into a short-term bed and breakfast, and people expect the same amount of cleanliness as they would at a hotel. You\u2019ll want to clean before and after your guests check in and out. You\u2019ll also want to minimize the amount of clutter around your home. This includes cleaning clothes out of closets and dressers, leaving the bare minimum of artwork up on the walls, and removing valuables and personal items that could get stolen. If you don\u2019t have enough room elsewhere in your home to relocate the items, consider\u00a0renting storage space<\/a>\u00a0to help keep your space clean and ready for renters.<\/p>\n
\nMake sure your home is hazard-free and that all appliances and that all lightbulbs are working and that smoke detectors have fresh batteries and have been tested recently. Research common liability issues for renters and make sure you do everything necessary ahead of time to keep your guests safe and happy during their stay.<\/p>\n
\nMany people choose to stay in a house (rather than a hotel) because they are able to enjoy many of the conveniences of home, like a full kitchen, multiple bedrooms, and because they get to experience what it would be like to live in the city they\u2019re visiting. Stock your kitchen cabinets with basic cooking utensils, pots & pans, and pantry essentials (like oils and spices). Consider having a coffee machine available as well. In the bathrooms, stock them with items people are likely to forget (like shampoo, toothpaste, and soap). Be sure to have extra clean sheets and blankets available. Consider everything you use when you stay at a hotel and try to go above and beyond for your guests in order to receive a good review.<\/p>\n
\nThe more information your guests have about what\u2019s expected of them, the better. If you live in an area that has specific rules about quiet times, or other community rules, be sure to communicate that to your guests. Always leave your contact information so that guests can get in touch with you in case of issues or emergencies.<\/p>\n