Screening Guests for Your Vacation Rental: Dos and Don'ts in Orlando, FL

Screening Guests for Your Vacation Rental: Dos and Don'ts in Orlando, FL

Orlando, the The Theme Park Capital of the World, set a new record welcoming a staggering 74 million tourists in 2023 -- the Orlando Economic Partnership reported.

But the excitement doesn't stop there. Get ready for an even bigger influx this year, as passenger volume at Orlando International Airport is poised to surpass last year's figures.

This tourism boom has had a jaw-dropping economic impact. Can you imagine the potential for your own vacation rental business amidst this surge?

To ensure a smooth hosting experience, screening guests for vacation rentals is essential. If you're wondering how to create the best guest screening process, this guide is here to help.

Keep reading our Orlando vacation rental tips to learn more.

Do Use Verified Booking Platforms

Business of Apps reported there were about 448 million bookings on Airbnb in 2023. With that kind of popularity, it's no surprise that using a trusted platform like Airbnb or Vrbo is a smart move for hosts. These platforms offer tools that help you vet guests with ease.

For example, Airbnb's profile verification process lets you review a guest's background, checking out their photo, government ID, and past reviews. It gives you a sneak peek into their travel history, giving you a clearer picture of who you're inviting into your property.

Do Set Clear Rules and Expectations

Establishing house rules for your vacation rental upfront is a must. Post them on your listing and repeat them during the booking process. Some key rules you can set include:

  • Noise restrictions
  • No parties or events
  • Maximum guest capacity

Clear guidelines help prevent misunderstandings during your vacation rental hosting. Additionally, rules may help you filter out problematic guests.

Do Verify IDs and Payment Information

Trust is great, but it's always good to double-check. Use tools from platforms or third-party services to verify IDs and payments. It'll help protect you against scams and fraudulent bookings.

If you need help with verification, consider consulting an Orlando property management service. They can help you streamline the process and save you time.

Don't Discriminate

Be cautious not to let personal biases influence your rental guest verification process. Fair housing laws forbid discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or nationality. Ensure your screening criteria are consistent for all your guests.

Don't Skip Communication

If a potential guest avoids answering questions about their trip, consider it a red flag. It's very reasonable for you to ask:

  • Who is traveling with you?
  • What brings you to Orlando?
  • Are you familiar with vacation rental policies?

This ensures you're hosting responsible travelers who align with your expectations. Skipping communication can leave you open to surprises.

Don't Be Afraid to Say No

Do not hesitate to decline a booking request if a potential guest seems questionable during the tenant screening process. Protecting your vacation rental should always be your priority.

Screening Guests for Vacation Rentals? Use a Professional Property Management

The stakes are high when it comes to your vacation rental. Effectively screening guests for vacation rentals doesn't just protect your property -- it also enhances your reputation as a host.

With PMI Property Alliance, we use proven guest screening processes to ensure your property is safe and your guests are satisfied. Don't wait -- reach out to us to make your rental profitable.

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