For many hosts, having the chance to personally welcome guests to a property is one of the magical aspects of the short-term rental experience. It gives hosts a chance to get to know their guests before they stay in their homes, and renters the opportunity to express their gratitude (or worries) in person rather than over the phone.
However, late-night arrivals and last-minute bookings can make checking-in guests a hassle for busy hosts. To combat this, Airbnb has created a self check-in option. This article explores the ins and outs of Airbnb self check-in, equipping you with the knowledge of what it is and the steps involved in smoothly implementing it in your properties.
What is Airbnb Self Check-In?
Self check-in is a service provided by Airbnb that allows guests to access a rental without the host needing to be there physically. Provided it is after their designated check-in time on the arrival date, guests can conveniently gain access to their Airbnb through alternative methods.
How Does Airbnb Self Check-In Work?
Airbnb self check-in is easy to operate. To implement it, you’ll first need to pick a method for your guests to get inside. Usually, hosts pick one of the following options:
- Keypads: These can be integrated into electronic door locks. In advance of their arrival, guests will be given an access code to open the front door. This also avoids the risk of a key being lost, another plus for the host.
- Smart locks: These are electronic locks that can be controlled remotely, usually through a Bluetooth or WiFi connection. Smart locks can sometimes be connected to a guest’s Airbnb account and will automatically generate a unique code that’s only active during a guest’s stay.
- Lockboxes: These secure boxes store keys outside a rental home. Ahead of their arrival, guests will be given a code by their host to unlock the box and access the key. It’s worth choosing a spot for a lockbox that can be easily found, as well as changing the code between every booking for safety.
Once you have picked and installed a self-check-in method, all you need to do is update your check-in method in the Arrival guide in the Listings tab of your account. Voila! You now have a functioning Airbnb self check-in system.
How to Prepare Your Property For Self Check-In
In the digital era, customers expect and often prefer remote and contactless functionality from services. There’s self-checkout at the grocery store, QR codes to order food at restaurants, and now Airbnb self check-in.
The self check-in option has become increasingly popular among Airbnb users in recent years, so implementing it seamlessly into your short-term rental is a great way to increase bookings and secure 5-star positive reviews. Here are our top tips for an effortless self check-in:
1. Set Up Clear Instructions
Make sure to add clear and simple details to your check-in instructions so guests know exactly how to get inside before they arrive.
Try to include pictures of each step of the process. Not only will this save you the hassle of receiving several questions regarding check-in, but it will have a huge impact on your guests who may be itching to check-in and sit down after a long day of travelling.
You can save time by scheduling a welcome message via your Airbnb chat for guests before their stay. Include helpful tips, such as advising them to take a screenshot of the check-in instructions or passwords beforehand in case mobile phone service is limited when they arrive.
2. Ensure the Process is Secure
Ultimately, hosts are responsible for creating a safe and secure check-in experience for guests. Ensure that your instructions are clear and accurate so that late arrivals aren’t left confused and stranded on a street after dark.
Additionally, provide each guest with a unique access code, so that there is no way anyone other than them can access your property.
How Frank Porter Can Help
At Frank Porter, we take pride in providing listing management services for our clients. This includes taking and editing top-quality photos, creating property-specific descriptions, and (you guessed it) helping clients utilize and implement self check-in efficiently and safely.
To take a look at the services we offer as listing managers, please click here.
