Tips for better guest reviews

Before a new guest books, they read reviews. Studies show that over 90 percent do this. Reviews are the first thing potential guests learn about you — before photos, before the price.

Good reviews bring more bookings. Poor or absent reviews put people off. The difference often has nothing to do with the apartment itself, but with small details that make a stay special.

Here are 7 tips that work in practice.

7 tips for better reviews

1. First impressions count
   The apartment must be clean — that is not optional, it is the baseline. But a small extra makes the difference: fresh towels, neatly folded, a welcome note on the table. A bar of chocolate, a piece of fruit, a local product. It costs little and stays in the memory. Guests write about these details in their reviews.
2. Provide a welcome folder
   Guests don't want to have to contact you to answer the simplest questions. WiFi password, house rules, recycling instructions, excursion tips, restaurant and supermarket recommendations — all within easy reach in a folder or laminated on the table. Guests who feel well informed are more relaxed and give better reviews.
3. Be available, but not intrusive
   Give your phone or WhatsApp number. Welcome guests briefly on arrival — in person or by message. After that: leave them in peace. Most guests want to enjoy their holiday without contact. Being reachable when needed, and otherwise invisible, earns good reviews.
4. Solve problems immediately
   Something always goes wrong at some point. A blown bulb, no hot water, a sticking key. How you react determines the review — not the problem itself. Someone who helps quickly and kindly shows they care. Guests forgive that. Guests who wait hours for a reply do not.
5. Ask kindly for a review after check-out
   Many guests don't write a review because they simply forget — not because the stay was bad. A short, personal message 1–2 days after check-out is enough: thank them for the stay and mention you'd appreciate a review. Don't beg, just ask. This significantly increases the review rate.
6. Respond to reviews
   Reply to reviews — both positive and critical. For positive ones: a brief, warm thank-you. For critical ones: friendly, factual, and solution-focused. Never defensive, never argumentative. New guests read your replies too. A professional response to a negative review can build more trust than ten uncommented five-star ratings.
7. Embed reviews on your own website
   If you have your own website, show real guest reviews there. New visitors trust other guests' experiences more than your own text. A collection of genuine testimonials on your website builds trust — and increases the willingness to book.

Summary

Good reviews don't happen by chance. They are the result of careful preparation, attentive support, and a quick follow-up after check-out.

The good news: most of these tips cost barely any time and almost no money. It is about attitude — about making guests feel welcome.

With your own website you can embed reviews directly and convince new guests from the very first visit — with no commission at all.

Try for free now →