How to make a fantastic first impression with your holiday home

We’re all familiar with the old adage about people; that you never get a second chance to make a first impression. The same can be said when it comes to a holiday let – creating a good first impression really is a one-time opportunity and a great way to make guests feel immediately welcomed.

Most people who book a luxury self-catering cottage are looking for somewhere that not only offers a fantastic location, but also the extra comfort and touches that make a holiday special.

Here are some tips to help you make a memorable and positive first impression for your guests.

A warm welcome

Like most of our properties, yours will probably operate a self-check-in, but it’s still possible to create that feeling of personal interaction without a physical presence. Feedback from a recent guest survey highlights the benefits of offering a welcome gift – a wonderful way to make guests feel at home straight away. This could include treats, snacks and/or drinks, and the more local the better. Scones, biscuits, crackers or fruit juice are great choices, and when possible accompanied by a handwritten welcome note to add personality.

Clean and bright

Of course, a beautifully clean and well-maintained holiday let is exactly what guests are looking for which is why choosing a cleaning company and property manager that can be relied on to deliver the standards you require is crucial.

Local information

Consider offering useful information like your favourite restaurants, coffee shops or walks in the area. Leaflets from local suppliers as well as maps, guidebooks and brochures for local attractions are always appreciated. Guests often relish a bit of insider knowledge on the best places to visit and dine.

Welcome packs

As mentioned earlier, local treats make a great first impression but it may be worth offering a selection of basics first and foremost. Bottled water, tea, coffee, milk and sugar are virtually essential – especially if visitors have had a long journey to get to their property of choice. We’d always recommend giving some basic household supplies too such as toilet roll, tissues, bin bags, and cleaning products. This ensures they have the essentials to tide them over for a day or so.

Extras

Including travel-sized toiletries like shampoo, conditioner and soap are a non-essential yet thoughtful touch that can save guests from having to bring or buy these items themselves. Luxury Coastal have recently partnered with ethical Cornish brand Land & Water to offer our property owners an exclusive discount code on the company’s gorgeous range of luxurious locally-made toiletries, so please do let us know if you are interested in stocking up on any of these.

Family-friendly properties who welcome children may wish to consider offering a selection of games and toys as well as children’s cups, plates and cutlery. Where possible, offering baby-friendly items will set your property apart too, and guests with tots will appreciate not having to lug bottle sterilisers, potties and stair guards.

All in all by creating an inviting and comfortable environment that exudes the warmth of a home from home, you’re likely to exceed guest expectations and reap the long term benefits of repeat customers and terrific reviews.