Cleveland, Ohio, is a vibrant city with a mix of cultural attractions, business opportunities, and recreational options, making it a popular destination for vacationers. 18.34 million visitors came to Cleveland in 2023, 2.2% more than in 2022, according to Cleveland Magazine.
If you own a vacation rental in Cleveland, finding the right guests is critical to ensuring your property is respected, your neighbors are happy, and your rental business thrives.
Screening guests for vacation rentals effectively is an essential skill for every host. Here's a guide to mastering the art of guest screening.
1. Require a Detailed Guest Profile
Use a vacation rental platform that supports comprehensive guest profiles and has a legitimate guest verification process. Look for information like their full name, phone number, and verified email address.
Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo often provide identity verification features which help with tenant background checks. Profiles with photos and detailed personal information indicate that the guest is serious and transparent about their stay.
2. Communicate Clearly Before Booking
Initiate a conversation with potential guests before approving their reservation. Ask about the purpose of their visit, the number of people in their group, and any special requirements they may have. Their responses can give you insight into their character and whether they'll respect your property.
For instance, if a group mentions plans for a large gathering, you might need to clarify your rules about parties or consider whether your property is suitable for their needs.
3. Set House Rules and Expectations
Be upfront about your property's short-term rental policies and include them in your listing. Rules should be clearly stated about:
- Smoking
- Pets
- Quiet hours
- The maximum number of occupants
This transparency allows potential guests to self-screen before booking.
For Cleveland rentals, you might include specific notes about respecting neighborhood noise ordinances or guidelines for parking, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic like downtown or Ohio City.
4. Read Guest Reviews
Platforms like Airbnb allow hosts to leave reviews for guests. These reviews provide valuable insight into the guest's behavior during previous stays.
A history of positive reviews suggests reliability, while negative feedback could be a red flag. If the guest has no prior reviews, use your discretion and rely on other screening methods.
5. Request Security Deposits
Security deposits not only protect your property but also deter irresponsible behavior. Guests who are unwilling to pay a deposit may not be the ideal candidates for your rental. While Cleveland is generally a hospitable city, being prepared for any damages or rule violations is a wise move.
6. Use Booking Restrictions
Many vacation rental platforms allow hosts to set booking restrictions, such as requiring a minimum stay or only accepting guests with verified identities. These tools can help filter out potential problem guests.
Screening Guests for Vacation Rentals Takes Effort
By requiring detailed profiles, setting clear expectations, and using the tools provided by booking platforms, you can attract responsible guests who value your property as much as you do. Screening guests for vacation rentals ensures safety for all involved.
If you don't have the time to do all this yourself, consider hiring a full-service property management service like PMI Realty Group Prettyman. We are part of a fast-growing franchise that has been perfecting the property management industry for nearly 20 years. Contact our team to learn more.
