Turning a Home Into an Extraordinary Guest Experience
🡐 Back to Resources | August, 2025 | Written by Kurt Russell
In short-term rentals (STRs), success isn’t just about location or price — it’s about hospitality. Guests book STRs because they want more than a bed; they want an experience that feels personal, comfortable, and unique. By transforming a property into an extraordinary guest experience, hosts can earn stronger reviews, repeat bookings, and higher nightly rates.
This guide explores how to elevate your property from a simple rental into a memorable hospitality experience that keeps guests coming back.
Why Guest Experience is the True Differentiator
Two homes in the same neighborhood can perform very differently. The difference often comes down to how well a host anticipates guest needs. Extraordinary guest experiences:
Boost occupancy through five-star reviews
Increase revenue by allowing premium pricing
Encourage loyalty with repeat stays and referrals
Differentiate your property in competitive markets
Want to see how reviews directly impact success? Read our blog on the role of reviews in STR performance.
1) Design With Purpose
A beautifully designed space makes the strongest first impression. Guests notice every detail, from furniture to décor. Focus on:
Comfortable, stylish furnishings that balance beauty and function
Warm lighting and layered textures to create coziness
Instagram-worthy accents that inspire photos and sharing
For inspiration, explore our Airbnb interior design guide.
2) Create Thoughtful Touchpoints
Hospitality is about anticipating guest needs. Add value by:
Leaving a handwritten welcome note or a curated gift basket
Providing guidebooks with local restaurant and attraction recommendations
Stocking small extras like umbrellas, board games, or coffee pods
See our blog on Airbnb essentials to make sure the basics are covered.
3) Simplify Check-In and Check-Out
A smooth arrival sets the stage for a great stay. Guests value convenience and clarity:
Offer smart locks or lockboxes with clear instructions
Send reminders before arrival and departure
Keep check-out tasks simple (trash, dishes, lock up)
For step-by-step systems, read our guide on streamlining check-in and check-out.
4) Leverage Local Partnerships
Extraordinary experiences often extend beyond the property. Build connections that enrich guest stays:
Discount codes with local restaurants or coffee shops
Partnerships with tour companies, gyms, or wellness providers
Event guides or curated recommendations
Learn more in our guide to networking in property management.
5) Communicate Like a Pro
Strong communication shows professionalism and care. Best practices include:
Responding promptly to inquiries
Using automated tools for reminders while keeping tone personal
Following up after check-in to confirm guest satisfaction
Explore automation platforms in our best STR software tools guide.
6) Surprise and Delight Guests
Small surprises leave lasting impressions:
Provide a complimentary bottle of wine or locally sourced treats
Offer early check-in when possible
Include kid- or pet-friendly extras to appeal to specific travelers
Considering pets? Check our guide on pros and cons of pets in STRs.
The Clear Stay Advantage
At Clear Stay Properties, we know that hospitality is about partnership. We work with owners to:
Stage and design homes for guest appeal
Implement seamless check-in and communication systems
Build guest experiences that drive repeat stays
Pair great hospitality with dynamic pricing strategies for maximum revenue
With Clear Stay, your property isn’t just managed — it’s transformed into a destination guests remember.
The Takeaway
Extraordinary guest experiences don’t happen by chance — they’re created with intention. From design and communication to local partnerships and surprise touches, every detail matters.
👉 Want to turn your property into an unforgettable experience? Fill out the form below to schedule your free consultation with Clear Stay Properties and let us show you how hospitality drives profitability.
