In 2023, around 840 million guests will check in to vacation properties, which shows how popular this type of accommodation is.
Screening guests is crucial for protecting your investment property and slashing vacation costs. But if you overlook this important aspect, you could lose a massive chunk of profit, making the business futile.
If you're currently struggling in this area, we're here to help. Here's why screening guests for vacation rentals is a must.
Protects Your Property
A major perk of using screening services is that they protect your property. When you conduct a thorough background check and verify the guests' identities, you're less likely to attract criminals. This reduces the risk of getting robbed or paying for damages.
Creates a Safe Environment
Landlords should screen vacation guests to produce a safe environment. Screening lets you pinpoint potential issues before they can happen in your home. The beauty is that if you don't have time to screen clients, hire a property management company that can do it for you.
Minimizes Cancellations
The problem with short-term rental properties is that guests may cancel last minute.
Luckily, you can avoid this by screening clients and creating a cancellation policy. Make sure you post a deadline in the T&Cs so that guests are informed and don't mess you around. Also, consider having a non-refundable deposit to minimize the risk further.
Guarantees Mutual Respect
Taking the effort to screen guests also benefits clients. When you detail the property's rules and manage expectations, it will help guests decide whether your vacation property aligns with their needs.
Further, screening clients shows guests that you care for the property and that it's well-maintained. As a result, it's easier for both parties to build a relationship on trust, which will improve the guests' experience.
Boosts Online Reviews
Every vacation host relies on online reviews to help them stand out from other listings. When you actively screen guests, you're more likely to receive positive reviews from guests and rank higher. It also means you'll attract more bookings in the future, which is the lifeblood of your rental business.
Although we've discussed the perks of screening guests, most landlords aren't sure how to do this thoroughly. Once you've hired a property management company, a manager will ask for the guests' contact details and their ID at the minimum. A bonus of having their identification means that if the guest performs a criminal act or damages your property, you can report them to the police.
Property managers will also ask for a deposit to confirm the guest's credit card and protect yourself for peace of mind. It's also crucial that the guest signs a vacation rental agreement as it legally binds guests.
Screening Guests for Vacation Rentals
Now that you know the perks, it's time to start screening guests for vacation rentals.
At PMI Puerto Rico, we have experience managing properties on the island for our clients. With first-hand knowledge of the island, we can guide you through the rental process while protecting your property.
Ready to take the next step? Contact PMI Puerto Rico today.
