What key information will attract guests?

What key information will attract guests?

At Bookster, our mission is to empower holiday rental managers with the tools and services they need to meet their guests' evolving needs.

Let's explore how guest expectations are shifting and how you can adapt to provide the information they need to feel confident about booking with you.

Firstly, understand guests' needs

Guests today have different priorities, concerns, and questions. 

Property managers must address these effectively to instil confidence from international and domestic guests, ensure a seamless experience and receive great reviews.

1. Review and communicate cancellation policies

Flexible cancellation policies are a significant factor for many guests.

Here's how to reduce cancellations:

• Offer flexibility: Consider implementing more flexible cancellation options.
• Transparency is key: Clearly communicate your policies on your website and booking platforms like Airbnb. This can help avoid misunderstandings and build trust with potential guests.

2. Highlight quiet, secluded places to visit

Guests may seek less crowded destinations. Help them explore safely by:

• Showcasing nearby natural attractions such as secluded beaches, hiking trails, or scenic countryside.
• Including photographs and detailed descriptions to entice guests looking for tranquil escapes.

For some, being close to deserted moors, mountain paths and secluded empty beaches may make this an easy task.

Other property managers may need to dig deep into their local knowledge of the area to find the hidden treasures and secluded spots. 

Think off the beaten path - and include photos on your property listing to incentivise bookings. 

3. Emphasise rigorous cleaning protocols

Guests are more conscious of cleanliness than ever.

Ensure they know your commitment to their safety by:

• Detailing cleaning practices, including the use of professional cleaning services and high-standard disinfectants.
• Explaining measures like buffer periods between stays and deep-cleaning routines.

4. Enhance in-house facilities

Make your property a retreat by adding thoughtful touches:

• Entertainment: Provide games, streaming services, or books.
• Comfort: Equip your space with cosy elements like quality bedding, a coffee machine, or a reading nook.
• Essential Amenities: Stock the property with practical items such as hairdryers and kitchen essentials.

Let's break this down.

Ensuring that your home feels like a haven away from the chaos is important. 

Take some time to look around your properties, and consider the needs of your future guests. 

• What will attract guests to your property?
• What will delight them when they arrive? 
• What will make their lives easier? 

Set aside a budget to make improvements, and photograph them to include in your listing. 

This doesn’t have to be expensive. Small details can make a big difference. 

• Games for children
• Games for adults!
• A Netflix account
• A quality coffee machine
• A hairdryer
• Home comforts such as a soft blanket on the sofa
• A reading nook, with a cosy chair and some books.

5. Promote health and safety facilities

Some guests will have a heightened fear of getting sick on their trip. 

So providing information on local health facilities is now as important as that list of must-visit restaurants. 

This information can be in your listing as well as your emails and guest area.

Assure guests of their well-being by:

• Providing information on local health services such as hospitals, pharmacies, and clinics.
• Ensuring easy access to cleaning supplies and hand sanitisers within the property.

6. Showcase layout and space

Guests may spend more time indoors, making the layout more important:

• Use professional photography, 3D tours, or floor plans to give a clear view of the property’s space.
• Highlight outdoor areas like gardens or balconies to showcase available open spaces.

7. Partner with local delivery services

Support local businesses and offer convenience to guests by:

• Providing details of nearby restaurants and stores that offer delivery.
• Partnering to offer exclusive discounts or perks for your guests.

8. Build confidence in your company

Guests prefer booking with trustworthy and transparent companies. Build confidence by:

• Partnering with verification services like i-PRAC.
• Displaying memberships in professional associations, like the ASSC.
• Showcasing positive guest reviews and encouraging feedback independently or through companies like Feefo.

It's not enough to be good. You have to show it. 

9. Offer extras to minimise contact

Increase guest comfort and revenue by offering additional services (and earn extra revenue):

• Grocery delivery: Stock the property with requested groceries before arrival.
• Mid-stay services: Offer cleaning or restocking services.
• Safety packs: Provide masks, gloves, and cleaning supplies.

Do you have anything to add to this list? Just get in touch and we'd be happy to share it with the community. 

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Adapting to changing guest needs is essential for the continued success of your rental business. By addressing these key areas and keeping communication open and clear, you can build trust, enhance guest experiences, and attract more bookings.

At Bookster, we’re here to help you navigate these changes with tools and strategies designed to support your business every step of the way. We provide the tips and tools to help your business attract bookings to your holiday lets, manage those bookings and manage guests' needs. 

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