How to Get Good Reviews: A Guide for Holidu Hosts

Positive reviews are crucial to building a successful hosting business on Holidu. They not only boost your ranking in search results but also help you earn the trust of future guests. For hosts aiming to achieve Holidu Star Host status, good reviews are essential—more than three reviews with an average score of 90 out of 100 are required to qualify. Here’s how you can consistently impress your guests and secure glowing feedback.

Set the Right Expectations Before Arrival

A great guest experience starts with clear and honest communication. Setting the right expectations ensures guests know exactly what to expect, leaving no room for unpleasant surprises.

- Accurate amenities: Ensure your Holidu listing reflects the true features of your property by keeping your amenities updated. Description texts are generated based on the amenities you configure, so accuracy is key to setting the right expectations. A common mistake is the distinction between shared and private amenities. Amenities should only be marked as private if they are exclusively available to a single unit. For properties with multiple units or apartments, shared amenities like pools or gardens should remain categorized as shared to avoid guest misunderstandings.

- Updated description texts: You can add or remove amenities at any time from your property configuration. To update description texts, inform your account manager so they can request an updated description text to make sure your guests see the correct information about your accommodation.

- Transparent Rules and Policies: Clearly outline house rules, check-in and check-out times, and any other important details so guests know exactly what to expect.

When guests arrive and find that the property matches the expectations set by your listing, it creates a sense of trust and satisfaction right from the start. This alignment between what was promised and what is delivered sets the foundation for a positive experience, making guests more likely to leave a glowing review.

Learn how to best set the amenities of your property in our educational video. 

Deliver a Spotless and Welcoming Space

Cleanliness and comfort are among the top factors guests consider when rating their stay. Meeting—and exceeding—these expectations is vital for receiving positive reviews.

- Deep Clean Between Stays: A clean and tidy property is non-negotiable. Pay special attention to high-touch areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and bedding. You can also consider investing in professional cleaning services.

- Stock Essential Items: Ensure your property is equipped with necessities like toiletries, fresh towels, and kitchen supplies. A well-stocked rental leaves guests feeling cared for.

- Comfortable Furnishings: Provide quality bedding, ample seating, and a pleasant ambiance. Guests who feel at home are more likely to leave glowing reviews.

- Thoughtful Extras: Small touches can go a long way. Welcome gifts, personalised messages, or complimentary items like coffee, tea, or snacks can make a big impression. Guests who feel valued often express their appreciation in reviews.

- Clear Instructions: Make sure instructions for using appliances, Wi-Fi, or entertainment systems are easy to follow. A guest frustrated by unclear instructions is less likely to leave a positive review

When guests experience a clean, comfortable, and thoughtfully prepared space that meets their expectations, they feel valued and cared for. This attention to detail creates lasting positive impressions, increasing the likelihood of glowing reviews that highlight your dedication as a host.

Be Available Without Being Intrusive

Guests value attentive and respectful hosts. Striking the right balance between being available and giving them space is key.

- Provide a Contact Point: Whether it’s you or a property manager, guests should have someone to reach out to in case of emergencies or questions. This reassures them and ensures their needs are met promptly.

- Quick Responses: Aim to respond to any questions or concerns within an hour during their stay. With their packed vacation schedules your guests are often depending on you getting back to them in a timely manner if any needs arise.

- Check-In Without Overdoing It: Sending a friendly message after check-in to ensure everything is as expected shows you care, but avoid excessive communication unless the guest initiates it.

Encourage Guests to Leave Reviews

While a good experience naturally leads to positive reviews, sometimes guests need a little nudge to share their feedback.

- Send a Thank-You Note: After their stay, use Holidu’s automated messaging feature (if available) to thank guests for choosing your property and invite them to share their experience.

- Remind Them of the Value of Reviews: Mention how reviews help you improve and assist future travelers in making informed decisions.

- Timing Matters: Send the review request shortly after checkout when their positive experience is still fresh in their minds.

Conclusion

By focusing on clear communication, thoughtful preparation, and excellent service, you can consistently provide memorable guest experiences that lead to outstanding reviews. On Holidu, good reviews don’t just improve your reputation—they also bring you closer to earning Star Host status and enjoying its exclusive benefits. Start delivering five-star stays today and watch your success soar!