Alex,
Nice to know that you are a hopeful host. I have hosted since 2016 ( Closed down during 2020-2021 due to the lack of travelers during the height of Covid19 ) I'd say that 95% of my guest reviews have been 5 stars. I have also put most of my energy into each of my over 200 reservations. Being retired helps a lot. I am an onsite host/owner, not an absentee host !!!! So, my guests have my hospitality at all hours, every day.
It's the negative or uneducated reviews that I learned the most from. Those first time Airbnb gusts that had no idea how, why or if reviews mattered. They rate low & throw all your rating numbers to pieces, even if they loved the place. If they don't care or don't know how to rate your place it really matters. I just say during the suite tour, "If you can't give me a 5 star rating don't give me any review." Most guests give a handwritten note of thanks before checking out (I make sure all note cards, pens & paper are available on their desk top with everything they need to do so.) The next guests love to read their comments in my photo scrapbook.)
I once had a guest & husband that were so happy with the suite. However, the husband had to add that he wished I had a King sized bed, because that's what he was used to at home. He was so sad about that fact. I was shocked at his lack of recall because my listing states a queen bed in the private bedroom. Didn't he ask his wife when she booked ? Especially when it mattered so much.
She still gave me a 5 star review, but I was worried for days until I got their review.
Then you should never have the" thieves "as guests.But how can you know before they check-out???? I have had a few & they broke my heart & ruined a few decor changes I provide for my guests. Those guests that steal entire sets of steak knives, hangers, perfectly matched blanket sets & gifts from other guests that I can never replace. The Guests that do dangerous & stupid things are just as bad. Like under age guests that burn up my pots & pans & then cook directly on the glass stove top & hide the evidence in the dishwasher without cleaning the stove top. That's why my ages requirements are 25yrs for the account holder & over 21yrs for their guest. Less chance they don't know how to cook. I always tell my guests that story & we laugh when I say "If you don't know how to cook just call me & I'll make whatever you like, please just don't learn how to cook here on this trip. (;+) Saves lots of heartbreak & extra host costs. (9 times out of 10 it's right before another guest(s) are arriving in quick order). Be a good human, but watch who stays in your place also. My minimum stay is three nights. Less is usually bad especially for those unscrupulous guests involved in illegal activity. Good guests won't mind, It keeps those other kind away from my family neighborhood. So, cover your requirements, rules & expect a few bad guests along the way. Good luck ahead. from "b.r'guest suite" (;+)lyn
