How to Delight Your Tenants
Within the short-term rental world, tenants are the most important stakeholders. Whether you’re a corporate housing company, or an individual looking to rent out a furnished luxury apartment, tenants assume utmost importance for two reasons. Firstly, they are your only revenue stream, and thus the profitability of your rental is directly linked to the how many of them you have. Secondly, your tenant’s sentiments after their stay can have great impact upon your rental’s future. A pleasant stay can lead to a tenant selecting you for all future trips, whilst a negative lodging experience can lead to a permanent loss in business. In addition, through word of mouth and online reviews, your past tenants can either drive new customers to your rental or instruct them to head in the opposite direction.
Given all of this, the question now becomes, how do you ensure that your tenants’ have a great experience from booking, all the way to their actual stay?
Easy Booking
You should first ensure that your booking process is as easy as possible. Within two to three clicks your tenants should be able to book your rental and make the necessary payments. A complicated booking process is an easy way to discourage potential customers from booking your space, and basically tells your potential customers to choose your competition over you. No one wants to spend too much time figuring out how your systems work, if there’s a simpler process out there waiting for them.
Make Your Short Term Rental Like Home
The stress of moving half way across the country or even the world, and leaving one’s family behind can be abated through comfort and familiarity. Consider tiny additions such as linens, dishes, throw blankets and even empty photo frames to make your rental warm and inviting to your traveling tenants.
A Personalized Touch
Finally, adding a bit of personalization for each tenant can really make all the difference. While not always possible, meeting your tenants in person to give them access to your rental can make them feel truly welcomed, and shows that you value them as a customer. This gesture, when paired with a personalized welcome note and a welcome package (consisting of some fresh fruit, bottled water and an info packet) can be the difference maker when it comes to your rental receiving a 10/10 review and you gaining a regular customer.
While it is impossible to please every tenant that you receive, a little effort on your end can help ensure that they at least have a comfortable stay. You should always be on standby to address any problem that may have, work to make your booking and payment processes as seamless as possible and make your rental as comfortable and homey as you possibly can. A happy tenant equals increased business, which means more profits, so make sure your tenants are happy.