Top Tips to Prepare Your Home for Guests and Get 5-Star Reviews

When you decide to rent out your property on the Costa del Sol, every detail counts. Guests today are not just looking for a place to stay; they want a memorable experience. The better you prepare your home, the more likely you are to earn glowing 5-star reviews, attract repeat visitors, and stand out on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com.

Here are our top tips to make sure your home is ready to impress and delight every guest.

1. First impressions start online

Professional photos: Invest in high-quality images that showcase your home’s best features. Bright living areas, cozy bedrooms, inviting terraces, and beautiful views can truly make your listing stand out. A well-lit, clutter-free photo often makes the difference between someone booking your place or moving on to the next option.

Clear, friendly descriptions: Highlight what makes your property special. Is it next to a golf course? A short drive to the beach? Make sure to mention it. Also include practical information like Wi-Fi speed or parking availability so guests know exactly what to expect.

2. Make sure it’s spotless

Cleanliness is the number one factor guests mention in reviews.
Use professional cleaners or a trusted team to deep clean before every stay. Pay special attention to bathrooms and kitchens, since guests expect hotel-level cleanliness in these areas. Don’t forget small details like under beds, inside drawers, and outdoor furniture.

3. Add thoughtful touches

Small gestures can make a huge impact.
Consider adding fresh flowers or a local bottle of wine as a welcome gift. Scented candles or subtle air fresheners create a warm atmosphere. A coffee and tea station stocked with local specialties also shows you care. These little extras often earn special mentions in reviews.

4. Ensure comfort and functionality

Test all appliances to make sure everything works properly, from the dishwasher to the air conditioning and coffee machine. Provide quality bedding along with extra pillows and blankets so guests feel at home. Keep a few spare essentials like lightbulbs and batteries on hand. Fast, reliable Wi-Fi is also very important, especially for guests who work remotely.

5. Stock up on essentials

Guests appreciate arriving at a place that’s already equipped with what they need.
Have toilet paper, hand soap, shampoo, and conditioner ready. Stock the kitchen with basics like oil, salt, pepper, and sugar. Don’t forget dishwasher tablets and laundry detergent so guests can keep things tidy during their stay.

6. Create a local guidebook

Help guests feel like locals by sharing your insider tips.
Include recommendations for the best tapas bars and beach restaurants nearby. Let them know where to find the closest supermarket and pharmacy. Suggest your favorite local walks or quiet beach spots. Also provide emergency numbers and clear instructions on how to use appliances or the alarm system.

7. Offer flexible, friendly communication

Guests love responsive hosts.
Reply quickly to messages both before and during their stay. Be available to help solve small problems, which are often simple things like finding the TV remote or the Wi-Fi password. A personal check-in or a friendly message on the day they arrive makes a big difference.

8. Partner with professionals

At Hello Sun, we take care of everything for you. This includes professional photography, listings on Airbnb, Booking and Vrbo, guest communication, cleaning, and 24/7 support. The result is happier guests, better reviews, and more income for you, all without the stress of managing it yourself.

Ready to get 5-star reviews?

If you’d like more tips or want us to handle it all for you, we’re here to help. At Hello Sun, we make sure your property shines and your guests leave already planning to come back next year.

Contact us today to learn more.

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