You’ve fluffed the pillows, stocked the fridge with local goodies, and picked out the perfect welcome mat—but is your vacation rental truly ready to wow?

Enter usability experience: the not-so-secret ingredient that transforms a good stay into a five-star memory. It’s not just about how pretty your place looks—it’s about how intuitively it works. When guests can easily figure out how to use everything, they settle in faster, treat the home with care, and leave glowing reviews in their wake.

So, what does great usability look like in a short-term rental? Let’s dive in.

Think Like a Guest (Literally—Go Stay There!)

Want to really know what works and what doesn’t? Stay in your own rental for a night or two. Start from the moment you park the car. Is the entry code easy to find? Can you locate the light switches in the dark? Are towels where you’d expect them to be? This firsthand experience is like gold—it reveals pain points that guests may not voice but definitely feel.

Design With Purpose

Usability starts with design. Sure, aesthetics matter—but functionality is the real MVP. That means utensils near the stove, extra blankets in bedroom closets, and yes, the coffee machine placed where it makes sense. If guests can get what they need without asking or searching, you’re doing it right.

Labels = Love

Nothing says “I care” like a clearly labeled light switch or a drawer marked “extra towels.” Labels take the guesswork out of navigating a new space. They help guests feel confident and competent—which, in turn, makes them feel at home.

Essentials: Better to Overdeliver

Running out of toilet paper mid-stay? That’s a no-go. Stocking your rental generously with necessities like paper goods, soap, and kitchen staples isn’t just thoughtful—it’s essential. And for larger groups? Multiply everything. No one likes fighting over the last wine glass.

Give Guests a Map (Figuratively Speaking)

Create a simple, friendly guidebook with key info: Wi-Fi password, how to use the TV, quirky appliance instructions, and house rules. A printed copy is handy, and a digital version? Even better. Think of it as a treasure map that leads straight to comfort.

 The Takeaway: A House That Feels Like Home

When everything is exactly where it should be—and guests don’t have to think twice—they relax. And relaxed guests are happy guests. They treat your space with respect, leave fantastic reviews, and become loyal repeat visitors.

Investing in usability isn’t flashy, but it’s powerful. It’s the kind of behind-the-scenes magic that turns a beautiful rental into a beloved one.

So go ahead—stay in your space, label that mystery drawer, and stock up on extra towels. Your future guests will thank you. With stars.

This article was brought to you by Dave Menapace, a thought leader in short term rentals and President of The 5 Star Co-Host, LLC (www.5strcohost.com) a leading vacation rental management company in New England.

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