Critique my listing - David Gomez - Santiago, Dominican Republic(Remote managed)

[David13189]

I started hosting last month, and the hardest part was hitting the publish button. If I hadn't mistakenly scheduled the publication and received a reservation request, I would still be paused.

I'm struggling with building registration and the smart lock system. Despite agreeing to digitize the check-in form, the receptionist continues to request manual guest registration, which visibly frustrates visitors. I'm negotiating with management to streamline the process and potentially revert to a single manual registration method to eliminate duplicate work.

My issue with the lock is that I can manage them with my app, but as soon as I add them to my automation system, the code doesn't work. I'm a software engineer, so I expected to solve this problem quickly, but I'm still facing issues. The biggest challenge is that the lock installed by the builder has a multipoint locking system, and there are limited brand choices.

I was having trouble with guests not reading the manual, but I think I fixed that by replacing the fancy guide with all the information sent at different times on the check-in date. Additionally, I added short GIFs to demonstrate how to use the lock, which was one of my biggest problems.

Here is my listing: airbnb.com/h/urban-orange-sti 

   

  

Also here is the how to operate lock gif that I send to guest via airbnb message:

 

[Content updated by Community Manager]

[Rebecca]

Hello @David13189 👋

It's been a little while since you posted so I'm going to tag in some experienced host superheroes that may be able to pop by and share their thoughts - @Calvin173, @David13189, @Greystone0 and @Jennifer3187 what do you think? 

Looking forward to hearing from you and thanks so much in advance! 😊

[Greystone0]

Hi @David13189 ,

Congratulations on publishing and what looks like a healthy response to your listing. You have amassed a nice collection of meaningful reviews and your listing looks great. 

While I am not entirely sure what you might be facing with 'registration' for your building - you could consider this:

- you collect the info needed for the building registration - since you have 4 occupants for your listing, it seems like it would be up to 4 people per reservation. You then 'register' the guests with your building for the appropriate dates. Let you guest know that the building registration has been completed and if they arrive with more or a different set of individuals then they would be required to make the necessary updates with the building. Not sure if this even applies but it is what occurred to me.

- you are indeed correct that folks won't read materials - but we are still obligated to provide them nonetheless. Your conclusion to distribute info accordingly is an excellent one. We do something similar with our guidebook and parcel out info based on the correspondence while also sharing a complete guidebook.

- we face a similar challenge with our 3 point deadbolt lock and thus our choices for an entry are limited. Just pointing it out and sharing a little background and insight can go a long way to alleviating any guest frustration that might occur.  If they understand the thought put into it a guest is less likely to view it negatively. It's just the circumstances available.

- it seems like you have a very good grasp of things and the only suggestion I would have is to continue to understand how guests experience your space and building so that you can tailor your messaging and operations to reflect that. 

- the video guide for your lock is excellent.  

Wishing you much success!