Tips for Creating An Epic Guidebook for Your Guests

A digital guidebook is a polished and professional way to elevate the guest experience. Photo: Folio.

Ever wondered how to take your short-term rental property to the next level? Chances are, if you’ve ever stayed at an Airbnb or VRBO property, you’ve stumbled upon a welcome guide or house manual. These manuals are designed to provide guests with the 4-1-1 on the rental, so they aren’t left hanging with any questions.

Here at Folio, our platform lets hosts create stylish, digital guidebooks to easily share with their guests, providing 5-star hospitality that leads to 5-star reviews. We’ve turned to our expert hosts for all their insider tips on creating an epic guidebook. Whether you're providing a physical guide or a digital one, make sure to follow these 8 tips below to ensure guests leave rave reviews.

1. Include the Wifi Password 

Typically, one of the first things a guest is going to look for is the Wifi password. You want to have it front and center as one of the most accessible items in your house manual. This may be especially important to those who are working remotely and want to hit the ground running as soon as they arrive at your rental. 

2. Outline Exactly Where to Locate Extra Amenities 

When arriving in someone else’s home, it can be difficult to locate all the basic necessities. Be sure to cover everything from locating the laundry facilities, where to find extra pantry items like toilet paper or dishwasher soap, as well as extra bedding linens. Another tip, label drawers within the kitchen and bathroom outlining exactly what is located within the cupboard for easy access. For a full checklist of things to include, read our article on launching your listing to Superhost status. 

3. Be Clear on Any House Rules or Requests  

Some homes or areas may be located within a quiet zone neighborhood or condo. Be sure to outline any rules, like no noise past 11 p.m., any rooms that may be off-limits to guests or even areas of the street where parking is not allowed. The more specific you can be, the more peace of mind you offer your guests. If you have any requests, especially for long-term guests like garbage removal, be sure to mention which days are garbage and recycling pick-up. 

4. Mention Any Pet-friendly or Kid-Friendly Features 

If your rental caters to families, be sure to highlight where parents can find the extra amenities. Items like pack n’ plays, high chairs and children's toys should be easily accessed if tucked away. The same goes for pet-friendly items, like a dog bed, food and water bowls, as well as any towels that may be used for dirty paws. 

5. Provide Detailed Instructions for Electronics and Appliances 

Ever stayed the night at someone’s house and had no clue how to turn on the shower? Take away the guesswork for guests by including step-by-step instructions on how everything works within the property. A few items to potential include: how the tv works, how to lock the automated door upon checkout, how to work the fancy coffee machine and yes, perhaps mention how to access the hot water in the shower.

6. Suggest Local Attractions and Restaurants 

While not exactly a must-have in every house guide, why not take it one step further and provide all your local insights on the must-sees within your neighborhood or city? Offering guests a curated selection of the best of the best not only makes their stay more enjoyable, but it just might lead to one more star on their review. Who doesn’t want to soar to Superhost status? 

7. Include Check Out Instructions 

It may seem obvious to you on how the property should be left upon checkout, but it may not be to your guests. Provide clear, step-by-step instructions for how to close up the property, including simple things like taking out the garbage and recycling, ensure all windows are closed and the keycode for locking the door on their way out. 

8. Add Professional Photos 

Since you already have bright, professional photos for your listing, adding them to your house manual gives an added air of professionalism. It also helps guests familiarize themselves with your space prior to arrival and can make for a smooth stay. 

Bonus Tip: If you’re providing a digital guide, consider sending guests a copy of your guidebook once the booking is confirmed (or a few weeks before their trip) so they have time to get familiar with the space. It might even cut down on the number of questions they ask.

If crafting the perfect guidebook seems overwhelming, schedule a call with us and we can walk you through it. We’ve helped hundreds of hosts elevate their guest experience and get amazing review — all while simplifying their operations.