Hosting 101: How to Be a Good Host

And we’re here to help. We’ve got the top tips on how to be a good host, so you can keep your storage listings booked and your renters happy. After all, more frequent bookings means more money for you. So what do you say? Gather your good manners and get ready to take your hosting skills to the next level.

Proper Hosting Etiquette

Etiquette refers to the polite behaviour of a particular group of people in society - in this case, Stashbee Hosts. But what does etiquette look like during a pandemic? Although you won’t be shaking anyone’s hand - and you definitely won’t be standing within 2m of them - there are still some great ways to make a good impression on your renters.

Remember, the better the impression you make as a host, the more likely it is that you’ll be raved about and attract repeat customers! You get the picture: more happy renters means more cash in your pocket. With these codes of conduct, you’ll have your rentals booked solid in no time.
 

1) Honesty is the best policy

Manners and etiquette may seem like a no-brainer, but sometimes it can be hard to be honest if there’s something a little iffy about your space. You want your renters to book with you because they consider your listing to be the best option for them, despite whatever quirks it may have. Respect that they’ll know what’s best for them.

If they should prepare to climb a few flights of stairs to store their stuff in your loft, let them know with a couple of pictures. Maybe they have to give the garage door a little extra oomph to get it open. No problem! Just be clear about it in your listing, and the right renters will make their way to you.

2) Keep your place clean

Being the perfect host doesn’t mean you have to plan an elaborate experience for your renters (though who doesn’t love a scented candle?). What it does mean is that you take extra care in keeping a clean and tidy listing - especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you plan to rent out your garage, see that the space is well organised and any of your own stuff is out of the way. So long as your space has been disinfected and is clutter-free, your renters are sure to feel welcome and secure about storing their stuff with you.
 

3) Be flexible

You can rent out your driveway with ease and still keep the rules of etiquette in mind. If there’s one thing we learned this year, it’s that things change. Should your renter need to shift their arrival time, or adjust the booking altogether, be prepared to politely go with the flow. Let your renters know that they can count on a pleasant experience, no matter what bumps in the road they may run into along the way.
 

4) Keep in touch

Sending a personalised email to your renter days before they drop off their stuff can go a long way. Prepare them for arrival by letting them know where they can pick up the keys. Then, go the extra mile by filling them in on some of the special things about your neighbourhood, like a beautiful park or places they may want to visit for lunch after they’ve finished storing their stuff at yours.

Part of having great business etiquette is having great communication skills - and taking the extra step of personalising a message for your renter and their needs rarely goes unappreciated.
 

Your renters to you after you go above and beyond for them.

Have a great hosting tip that we missed? Tweet us what makes you the perfect host!