How to get a 5-star review — 7 rules the best hosts follow

The difference between 4 and 5 stars isn't luxury — it's the details. These 7 rules are used by hosts with a review average above 4.8.

1. Reply within 1 hour

Response speed is the most important factor for the first impression. A guest who waits 6 hours for a reply has already decided you won't get 5 stars. Turn on notifications. Prepare templates for frequent messages.

2. Under-promise, over-deliver

If your apartment has a sea view — don't describe it as "partial view". Describe it honestly. When the guest arrives and the view is better than expected — that's 5 stars. The reverse? 3 stars and an angry review.

3. Check-in must be flawless

Send arrival instructions 24 hours ahead. Include: address, Google Maps link, parking instructions, photo of the entrance, contact phone. A smart lock or key box eliminates the stress of "I have to wait for the host".

4. Cleanliness is non-negotiable

The most common reason for 4 instead of 5 stars is "it was clean, BUT...". That "but" is a hair in the tub, dust on a shelf, a crumb in a drawer. Create a cleaning checklist and follow it religiously.

5. Be available but not intrusive

Send a short message on arrival day: "Welcome! If you need anything, just let me know." And that's it. Don't call, don't visit, don't check in. The guest wants privacy — but also the assurance you're there if needed.

6. Fix problems within 30 minutes

AC not working? Tap leaking? Don't promise "we'll fix it tomorrow". Send a repairman today. Or at least — message the guest with a concrete plan and timeline. A problem solved quickly becomes "great experience with the host" in a review.

7. Ask for a review — but correctly

On check-out day, send a message: "Thank you for staying! If you enjoyed it, I'd appreciate a short review — it means a lot to us." Never ask for "5 stars". Ask for an honest review. If you did everything right — 5 stars come naturally.