Thinking about turning your home into a vacation rental for the first time? Hosting guests through can be a rewarding way to earn extra income and meet travelers from all over the world. But it’s not as simple as just handing over the keys. To help you avoid rookie mistakes and set yourself (and your guests) up for success, here are some essential vacation rental dos and don’ts for first-time hosts.

✅ DO: Make a Great First Impression

First impressions count, especially online. Your listing photos should be clean, well-lit, and showcase the best features of your space. Invest a little time in staging your home before taking pictures and consider hiring a professional photographer if possible. High-quality photos can dramatically increase bookings.

Your description should be clear, honest, and highlight what makes your property unique. Include nearby attractions, amenities, and anything else that would entice a guest to choose your place over others.

❌ DON’T: Overpromise

Honesty is key in the vacation rental world. If your listing says “ocean view” but the ocean is barely visible through a side window, you’re setting yourself up for disappointed guests and negative reviews. Be upfront about what your rental offers and what it doesn’t. It’s better to under promise and overdeliver than the other way around.

✅ DO: Keep It Clean and Stocked

Cleanliness is one of the most important factors in guest satisfaction. Before every check-in, make sure the entire space is thoroughly cleaned, including less obvious spots like baseboards, light switches, and inside the fridge. If cleaning isn’t your strength, consider hiring a professional cleaning service.

Also, make sure to stock basic essentials like toilet paper, paper towels, hand soap, and trash bags. Adding a few thoughtful extras—like bottled water, coffee, or a welcome note—can go a long way in creating a memorable stay.

❌ DON’T: Neglect Local Laws and Regulations

Every city has different rules when it comes to short-term rentals. Some require permits, others limit how many days you can rent out your property each year. Ignoring these regulations can lead to fines or even legal trouble. Before listing your space, research your local ordinances and make sure you’re compliant.

✅ DO: Set Clear House Rules

Establishing boundaries upfront helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures your rental runs smoothly. Use your listing to clearly communicate rules around things like smoking, pets, quiet hours, and maximum occupancy. Once guests book, send a welcome message that reiterates the most important rules and check-in/check-out instructions.

❌ DON’T: Assume Everything Will Go Smoothly

Even with the best planning, things can go wrong. Wi-Fi might go out, a guest could accidentally break something, or you may get a last-minute cancellation. Be prepared for bumps in the road by having contingency plans. Have a handyman you can call, keep extra linens and supplies on hand, and stay responsive to guest needs during their stay.

✅ DO: Be a Responsive Host

Great communication is one of the easiest ways to earn five-star reviews. Be prompt in answering inquiries, and once a guest books, keep the lines of communication open. Check in before arrival, be available during the stay, and follow up after check-out to thank them and invite them to leave a review.

❌ DON’T: Forget About Security

Your safety and your guests’ matters. Install a smart lock or keypad to make check-in easy while avoiding the risks of lost keys. Consider adding exterior security cameras (but always disclose this in your listing). And never leave personal valuables in the rental space.

Hosting a vacation rental can be a fantastic experience, both financially and personally, if you go into it prepared. By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll set the foundation for a successful hosting journey, earn glowing reviews, and keep guests coming back.

For decades, Foley Vacation Rentals has been the trusted name in vacation property management on Cape Cod. Local homeowners turn to us because we know the market inside and out, and we treat every property as if it were our own. Whether you’re new to short-term rentals or a seasoned host, our hands-on approach, personalized service, and proven track record make all the difference. From marketing and guest communication to maintenance and cleaning, we handle it all—so you don’t have to.  To learn more, give us a call at 508-548-3415. Happy hosting!