Preparing Your Property for Renters: Owner's Checklist

Getting your property ready for guests can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you own vacation rentals, cabins, beach houses, & more, ensuring your rental vacation property is in top shape is essential for attracting guests and earning positive reviews. This comprehensive checklist will guide you through the process of preparing your property, helping you turn it into a desirable vacation for rent destination on LLIVO.

1. Deep Clean and Declutter

A spotless property is the foundation of a great guest experience.

A. Thorough Cleaning

• Kitchen: Clean appliances, countertops, and cabinets inside and out.
• Bathrooms: Scrub showers, tubs, toilets, and sinks until they sparkle.
• Bedrooms: Wash bedding and linens; vacuum and dust thoroughly.
• Living Areas: Dust furniture, clean floors, and remove cobwebs.

B. Declutter Spaces

• Remove Personal Items: Store away family photos and personal belongings.
• Organize Closets and Drawers: Provide space for guests' belongings.
• Minimize Decor: Keep decorations tasteful and minimal.

2. Safety First

Ensure your guests feel secure in your rental vacation house.

A. Install Safety Devices

• Smoke Detectors: Place on every floor and in each bedroom.
• Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Especially important if you have gas appliances.
• Fire Extinguishers: Keep accessible in the kitchen and near fire-prone areas.
• First Aid Kit: Stock with essentials and place in an easy-to-find location.

B. Check for Hazards

• Secure Loose Items: Fix loose floorboards or railings.
• Eliminate Tripping Hazards: Remove cords or rugs that could cause falls.
• Childproofing: If targeting families, consider safety gates and outlet covers.

C. Provide Emergency Information

• Emergency Contacts: List local emergency numbers and your contact information.
• Exit Routes: Post clear instructions for evacuation in case of an emergency.
• Property Guide: Include instructions for appliances and utilities.

3. Enhance Comfort and Convenience

Make your property a home away from home.

A. Comfortable Furnishings

• Quality Bedding: Invest in comfortable mattresses and high-thread-count linens.
• Ample Seating: Ensure there's enough seating for the maximum number of guests.
• Climate Control: Provide fans, heaters, or air conditioning as needed.

B. Stock Essential Amenities

• Bathroom Supplies: Provide toiletries like shampoo, soap, and toilet paper.
• Kitchen Essentials: Equip with cookware, utensils, dishes, and basic spices.
• Laundry Facilities: Offer access to a washer and dryer with detergent provided.

C. Entertainment Options

• Wi-Fi Access: Essential for most guests; provide the network name and password.
• Television and Streaming Services: Include cable or streaming subscriptions.
• Games and Books: Offer board games, books, or local guides.

4. Prepare the Exterior

The outside of your property is the first thing guests see.

A. Curb Appeal

• Landscaping: Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and remove weeds.
• Clean Entryway: Sweep the porch and clean the front door.
• Outdoor Lighting: Ensure pathways and entrances are well-lit.

B. Outdoor Amenities

• Patio Furniture: Provide clean and functional outdoor seating.
• Grill or BBQ: If available, ensure it's clean and provide necessary tools.
• Recreational Equipment: Offer bikes, kayaks, or beach gear if appropriate.

C. Parking

• Clear Instructions: Let guests know where they can park.
• Access: Provide garage door openers or parking permits if needed.

Discover how to make your property stand out on our Guide to Rental Listing.

5. Create a Welcome Book

Provide guests with all the information they need for a comfortable stay.

A. House Rules

• Check-In/Out Times: Clearly state when guests can arrive and must depart.
• Pet Policies: Specify if pets are allowed and any associated rules.
• Smoking Policy: Indicate whether smoking is permitted on the property.

B. Property Information

• Appliance Instructions: Provide manuals or quick guides for appliances.
• Wi-Fi Details: Include network name and password prominently.
• Troubleshooting Tips: Offer solutions for common issues (e.g., how to reset a tripped breaker).

C. Local Recommendations

• Restaurants and Cafes: List your favorite spots nearby.
• Attractions and Activities: Suggest local sights or experiences.
• Transportation Options: Provide information on public transit or taxi services.

6. Set Up Communication Channels

Ensure you're reachable and responsive.

A. LLIVO Messaging

• Enable Notifications: Receive alerts for guest messages and inquiries.
• Respond Promptly: Aim to reply within a few hours.

B. Provide Contact Information

• Phone Number: Offer a way for guests to reach you directly in case of urgent matters.
• Backup Contact: Designate someone else to assist if you're unavailable.

C. Establish Guidelines

• Preferred Communication Hours: Let guests know when you're available.
• Emergency Procedures: Clarify what constitutes an emergency and how to handle it.

7. Verify Legal and Tax Requirements

Stay compliant with local laws and regulations.

A. Research Local Regulations

• Permits and Licenses: Check if you need a short-term rental permit.
• Zoning Laws: Ensure your property is zoned for rentals.

B. Tax Obligations

• Occupancy Taxes: Determine if you need to collect and remit local taxes.
• Income Reporting: Keep accurate records for tax purposes.

C. Insurance Coverage

• Update Policies: Inform your insurance provider about your rental activities.
• Liability Protection: Consider additional coverage for guest-related incidents.

Stay informed with resources from the U.S. Small Business Administration.

8. Install Secure Access Systems

Make entry and exit easy and secure for guests.

A. Keyless Entry

• Smart Locks: Provide unique codes for each guest.
• Ease of Use: Simplifies check-in and check-out processes.

B. Secure Key Exchange

• Lockboxes: If using physical keys, install a secure lockbox.
• Clear Instructions: Explain how to access and return keys.

C. Backup Options

• Spare Keys: Keep extras in a safe place in case of emergencies.
• Local Contact: Have someone nearby who can assist if needed.

9. Set Up House Rules and Policies

Establish clear expectations to protect your property.

A. General Conduct

• Noise Levels: Specify quiet hours to respect neighbors.
• Maximum Occupancy: Limit the number of guests allowed.

B. Restrictions

• Parties and Events: State whether these are permitted.
• Unauthorized Guests: Outline policies on additional visitors.

C. Consequences

• Damage Policies: Explain how damages will be handled.
• Violation Penalties: Mention any fees for breaking house rules.

For guidance on setting policies, visit our Terms of Service.

10. Take High-Quality Photos

Showcase your property at its best.

A. Use Good Lighting

• Natural Light: Photograph during the day with curtains open.
• Even Lighting: Avoid shadows for clear images.

B. Highlight Key Features

• Unique Amenities: Capture images of hot tubs, fireplaces, or scenic views.
• Multiple Angles: Provide different perspectives of each room.

C. Professional Touch

• Hire a Photographer: Consider investing in professional photos.
• Stage the Space: Arrange furniture and decor to enhance appeal.

D. Descriptive Alt Text

• Accessibility and SEO: Use alt text like "Cozy cabin rental with mountain views available on LLIVO."

11. Stock Up on Supplies

Ensure guests have everything they need.

A. Consumables

• Toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toilet paper.
• Kitchen Supplies: Coffee, tea, sugar, salt, and cooking oil.
• Cleaning Products: Dish soap, sponges, and trash bags.

B. Linens and Towels

• Extra Sets: Provide additional bedding and towels.
• Laundry Access: Allow guests to wash linens if they wish.

C. Seasonal Items

• Warm Blankets: For colder months.
• Beach Towels and Chairs: If near the ocean or a lake.

12. Final Walkthrough

Ensure everything is perfect before guests arrive.

A. Test All Appliances

• Functionality Check: Ensure all appliances are working properly.
• Replace Batteries: In remotes, clocks, and detectors if needed.

B. Personal Touches

• Welcome Note: Leave a friendly message for guests.
• Local Treats: Provide snacks or a bottle of wine from the area.

C. Check the Details

• Scent and Air Quality: Ensure the property smells fresh.
• Temperature Settings: Set to a comfortable level.

Conclusion

Preparing your property for renters involves attention to detail and a focus on guest satisfaction. By following this comprehensive checklist, you'll ensure your rental for vacation is welcoming, safe, and ready to provide an unforgettable experience. With LLIVO's platform, listing your vacation rentals, cabins, beach houses, & more has never been easier. Start preparing today and unlock the full potential of your property.