How to Get Five Star Reviews as a Short-Term Rental Host

May 27, 2025

Let’s be real: 5-star reviews aren’t about perfection.

5-star reviews are about how your guests feel from booking to checkout. You don’t need granite countertops or a hot tub (though hey, they don’t hurt), what you do need is consistency, clarity, and care.

Here’s how to consistently earn 5-star reviews from a host’s perspective:

Start Strong: Nail the First Impression

The guest experience starts before they arrive. Fast, friendly, and clear communication from the moment they book sets the tone. Send a personalised welcome message, answer questions promptly, and provide all key details (check-in, parking, Wi-Fi, etc.) in one place.

Pro Tip: Use automated messages for consistency, but add a human touch.

Clean Like a Maniac

This is non-negotiable. Cleanliness is the fastest way to a 1-star review if you get it wrong and the easiest win if you get it right. Even older properties feel amazing when they’re spotless.

✅ Checklists for your cleaners
✅ Spot-check high-touch areas
✅ Keep linens fresh and stain-free

Be Honest in Your Listing

Don’t oversell. Don’t hide flaws. Guests don’t expect perfection—but they hate surprises. Be transparent about quirks (“steep stairs” or “street noise”) so expectations match reality. Under promise, over deliver.

Create a Seamless Arrival Experience

Self-check-in is ideal, but whatever method you use, make it smooth. Provide clear directions, labeled keys, and maybe even a short welcome video or visual guide.

Bonus: Leave a light on or small welcome touch (like a local snack or a handwritten note). It makes a big impact for a small effort.

Think Like a Guest

Walk through your space like someone who’s never been there. Is it obvious where to find the kettle? How to work the heating? Anticipate needs: coffee, charging ports, spare towels, etc. Better still, have an overnight stay before you go live. This way you will identify anything you don’t have that could be added to the property before a guest informs you.

The magic is in the details.

Fix Issues Fast and With Empathy

Mistakes happen. Wi-Fi might go out, or a guest might not find the hairdryer. How you handle it matters more than the issue itself. Respond quickly, acknowledge the inconvenience, and do what you can to make it right.

Even just saying, “I totally understand why that would be frustrating, thank you for letting me know,” goes a long way.

Ask for the Review (Gently)

Once the guest checks out, send a warm message thanking them and letting them know you’d love their feedback. Make it about their experience, not your rating.

“If there’s anything I could’ve done better, I’d love to hear it. And if you enjoyed your stay, a quick review would mean a lot.”

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be perfect to get 5 stars. You just need to care. Make things easy, be honest, and treat guests like real people, not just bookings. The stars will come. The repeat guests will too.

You’ve got this.

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