Creating a comprehensive and engaging welcome book for your vacation rental can significantly enhance your guests’ experience. Here, we will offer eight essential tips to help you craft the perfect vacation rental welcome book. Let’s get started!
Benefits of a Vacation Rental Guidebook
Having a vacation rental welcome book is like having a helpful concierge right there at your property, making your guests feel welcome and informed. Here’s why every short-term rental owner should have one:
- House Manual: Includes all the important details about how to use appliances, house rules, and emergency procedures.
- Local Guide: Offers great recommendations for nearby attractions, dining spots, and fun activities.
- Improves Guest Experience: Helps guests feel more comfortable and informed, leading to a better stay.
- Boosts Reviews: Increases your credibility and helps you get better reviews, making you look like a superstar host.
- Promotes Your Rental: Shows you care and are reliable, encouraging future direct bookings.
8 Tips for Crafting a Vacation Rental Welcome Book
1. Start with a Warm Welcome Note
Begin your welcome book with a personal and warm message. Introduce yourself and express your gratitude for their stay. A friendly tone sets the right mood and makes guests feel valued from the start.
Example:
“Welcome to our home! We’re thrilled to have you stay with us and hope you enjoy your time here. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Have a wonderful stay!”
2. Provide Clear Property Information
Ensure guests have all the essential information about your property at their fingertips. This section should include:
- Wi-Fi Details: Network name and password.
- Check-In/Check-Out Procedures: Clear instructions on arrival and departure times.
- House Rules: Guidelines on noise levels, smoking, pets, and additional guests.
- Emergency Contacts: Local emergency numbers, nearest hospitals, and your contact information.
Example:
“Wi-Fi Network: HomeSweetHome / Password: welcome123″
3. Include Detailed Operating Instructions
Help guests navigate your property by providing clear instructions on how to use appliances and amenities on your short-term rental welcome book. This reduces confusion and prevents potential damage.
- Kitchen Appliances: How to use the oven, microwave, dishwasher, and coffee maker.
- Heating/Cooling Systems: Instructions for the thermostat, fans, and heaters.
- Entertainment Systems: Details on operating the TV, cable, streaming services, and any gaming consoles.
- Laundry Facilities: How to use the washer and dryer.
Example:
“To operate the dishwasher, load the dishes, add detergent, and select the ‘Normal Wash’ setting.”
4. Offer Local Recommendations
Guide your guests to the best local spots by providing a curated list of recommendations. This enhances their stay and shows your knowledge and care.
- Restaurants and Cafes: Include a variety of dining options.
- Attractions and Activities: Highlight popular sites and hidden gems.
- Shops and Markets: Recommend nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, and unique local shops.
- Transportation: Information on public transport, taxi services, and car rentals.
Example:
“For a fantastic dining experience, visit The Local Bistro, just a 10-minute walk away. Their seafood is a must-try!”
5. Emphasise Safety and Security
Make sure your guests feel safe and secure by providing crucial safety information in your vacation rental welcome book.
- Emergency Exits: Location of exits and an evacuation plan.
- First Aid Kit: Where to find it and its contents.
- Security Features: How to use locks, alarms, and any surveillance systems.
Example:
“In case of an emergency, the first aid kit is located under the kitchen sink. Emergency exits are clearly marked throughout the property.”
6. Address Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Anticipate common questions to minimise confusion and streamline your guests’ experience.
- Trash and Recycling: Collection days and sorting guidelines.
- Parking: Where guests can park their vehicles.
- Maintenance: How to handle minor issues like blown fuses or clogged drains.
Example:
“Trash collection is on Tuesdays. Please place the bins by the curb the night before.”
7. Add Personal Touches
Personal touches can make a big difference in your guests’ experience. Include a warm welcome message, a touch of local history, or even a handwritten note.
- Welcome Gifts: Information about any complimentary items like snacks, drinks, or toiletries.
- Local Insights: Personal anecdotes or tips about the area to create a connection with your guests.
Example:
“Feel free to enjoy the complimentary bottle of wine we’ve left for you. It’s a local favourite!”
8. Keep Your Welcome Book Updated
Regularly review and update your welcome book to ensure all information is current. This includes property details, local recommendations, and any changes to rules or procedures.
Example:
“Updated July 2024: Check-out time has been extended to 11 AM.”
How to Make Your Own Vacation Rental Welcome Book
Here are a few options to consider:
- Use Platforms: Platforms like TouchStay and HelloHere allow you to create and share digital welcome books and print versions. However, these come with a cost and may need some customisation.
- Hire a Designer: Get a graphic designer to create a guidebook and place printed copies in the property for guests to use upon arrival.
- Cost-Effective Option: Design your guidebook and attach it to your automated check-in email. Leave a printed version in the property. This method is practical and efficient, automatically sending the guidebook to guests via your PMS before they arrive.
For the most efficient option, Zeevou offers a free vacation rental guidebook template you can use. Download it here.
Conclusion
A well-crafted vacation rental welcome book is an invaluable tool for enhancing guest satisfaction, reducing enquiries, and promoting positive reviews and repeat bookings. By following these eight essential tips, you can create a welcome book that ensures your guests feel at home and well-informed, leading to a memorable and enjoyable stay.
