I manage a sweet little country cottage in a tourist hotspot, and I’m proud to be Airbnb Superhost. In the travel industry reviews are everything. So I’m about to tell you exactly how to make a few changes to catapult your rental from good reviews to outstanding reviews.

Make it Shine 

First, your short term rental must be sparkling clean for every guest. Choose your cleaning crew wisely. Be specific in your requirements and clear in your expectations. Build a teamwork environment. Use quality supplies that your team helps choose. Your cleaning crew should feel like they put their personal stamp of approval on the space, every time they finish a cleaning. Publicly give them credit for their excellent work with referrals and ratings for their business. But, what if you are just starting out and money is too tight to hire a superb cleaning crew? Or, maybe you haven’t yet found anyone you trust to get the job done? Do what I did for several months; clean it yourself. Guests notice cleanliness immediately, and an exceptionally clean and fresh space says to your guest, “This host is super!” So keep in mind that your reviews depend on your attention to cleaning details.

Dust-free corners and windowsills matter. Shiny faucets matter. Crisp linens and smooth towels and squeaky clean toilets really do matter to guests. So, do whatever it takes to find the right people to clean your rental, or do a sterling job yourself. When the cleaning is done right, your guests will always be greeted with a fresh smell in a beautifully fresh space.

Communication is Key

Second, your guests want excellent communication. Just being available isn’t enough; actually check in with your guests during their stay. Some guests have lots of questions, and some guests have none. But, I make certain my guests know I am available any time they may need me.

Message guests before they check in, to let them know you’re happy they are coming. Touch base after they check in to make sure they love the space and that they have everything they need. Then check on them one more time before they check out and thank them for coming.

On the rare occasion I will not be available for a few hours, I let guests know exactly who will be assisting them in my place. Communication really is key to insuring each guests has a perfect stay.

Personal Touches

Third, don’t forget the special touches. After you’ve attended to all the basics, focus on the details. Guests love thoughtful items that show you put thought into preparing for their visit. I leave a handwritten welcome note for each guest. The note may reference the special occasion they are celebrating. Or, I may encourage guests to help themselves to our fresh herbs, or seasonal goodies we grow at our farm. Perhaps I remind guests of any expected weather changes during their stay, or let them know which night will be perfect for making s’mores around the fire pit.. Along with the personal note I leave a gift item or two to greet my guests. These thoughtful touches really make each guest feel right at home, and assure them that the space you host is truly exceptional.

So get started today. Clean down to the shine, communicate well, and don’t forget the personal touches. Make these three changes, and watch your good host ratings jump up to the next level. You’ll join me as an Airbnb Superhost in no time!