City Relay’s Top Tips for how to become a Five-Star Host

London: In this latest feature, premium short-term let management company City Relay discloses its top tips from experts on how to create the perfect summer rental.

As we are now well and truly into the summer season, though the unpredictable British weather may make you beg to differ, there is no better time to give your short-term rental property a new lease on life.

Summer is the busiest and most important time of the year for any rental host, and in order to really make the most out of your home, becoming a five-star host will ensure happy vacationers will continue coming back for more, and send their friends and family. Simply follow our five top tips to create your perfect summer rental home and gain the most interest for your property.

1. Make them feel at home

For the first of our tips, when travellers choose to stay in a short-term let property, they are choosing to stay in a home away from home, therefore it is important to make sure guests feel comfortable and at home during their stay. This can be achieved by laying out some thoughtful books, providing a selection of lifestyle magazines, or even creating a guide to the neighbourhood so they can really feel like a local.

2. Create a five-star bed

The first thing anybody does when they walk into a hotel room is check the most important aspect, the bed – so why would this be any different when short-term letting a home. Not only is a comfy mattress and topper a must for all beds, decoration is also key. Choosing a statement throw or blanket allows your guests to sit comfortably on the bed and can double as a place to put luggage while unpacking, without dirtying your duvet. Decorative pillows are also a perfect way to add a pop of colour while making the bed look much more enticing. There is no better feeling then coming home from a long journey, or a busy day exploring the city, to a nicely made bed!

3. Declutter by choosing simple designs

In order to create a space that people want to spend time in, you have to make it look chic without over cluttering – by choosing a central rug, having neutral curtains and decorative pillows, you are making any room feel homely without clutter. Make sure any of your ‘stuff’ is stored away in cupboards and only have the essentials in eye shot, to keep any room clean and tidy. It is also important to not keep your walls too bare and sterile, by adding artwork and mirrors you are able to create a more homely atmosphere.

4. Smell

Nobody wants to walk into a rental home which smells old and musty, as if it has been hibernating for the winter; therefore, it is important to ensure your home smells fresh and clean! Adding scented candles or diffusers is a simple way of ensuring your home smells delicious, and is the perfect touch to add to the overall atmosphere.

5. Keep it light

Light is one of the most important aspects of any home, so providing guests with as much natural light as possible will ensure your rental property will feel warm and enticing. If there is not an abundance of natural light, you can easily add extra lamps, particularly in the bedroom and living room to create the appearance, and keep dull rooms looking much brighter!

Visit the City Relay website here for more information.