Why Every Short-Term Rental Owner Needs a Rental Setup Checklist

short term rental checklist

Share This Post

If you’ve ever wondered why some short-term rentals stay booked year-round while others sit empty, the difference often comes down to how well the property was prepared before it went live. Success doesn’t happen by chance, it’s the result of thoughtful planning, attention to detail, and professional setup.

That’s where Short Term Stay Pros comes in. Before your first guest ever walks through the door, Karen Etchells will personally visit your property and create a customized readiness checklist that sets you up for five-star success from day one.

 

Step One: A Professional Property Walkthrough

Every home is unique. During your on-site visit, Karen evaluates your space from the guest’s perspective — everything from the placement of furniture and storage areas to the quality of bedding, lighting, and décor. She’ll identify what’s missing, what needs improvement, and where small upgrades can have a big impact on guest satisfaction and reviews.

This isn’t a quick glance. It’s a detailed assessment backed by years of hands-on experience managing successful Airbnbs and vacation rentals across Connecticut and Rhode Island.

 

Step Two: A Custom, Actionable Checklist

After the walkthrough, you’ll receive a comprehensive checklist tailored to your property. This list outlines every item you’ll need,  from must-have linens and kitchen essentials to safety features and thoughtful amenities that elevate the guest experience.

No guessing. No wasted spending. Just a clear roadmap to getting your rental guest-ready with confidence.

 

Why This Preparation Matters

Launching a short-term rental without proper setup is like opening a restaurant before stocking the kitchen. You’ll spend more time scrambling than hosting.

A readiness visit ensures:

  • Five-Star First Impressions: Guests notice when everything feels intentional, from fresh linens, well-stocked supplies, and a spotless, organized space.

  • Smoother Operations: Your cleaning team will always know where to find supplies, and turnovers will occur more efficiently with fewer mistakes.

  • Better Reviews & Repeat Guests: The details that Karen’s checklist covers are the same ones that drive higher ratings, which directly influence bookings and revenue.

  • Less Stress for You: When systems are in place from the start, you spend less time troubleshooting and more time profiting.

 

Step Three: Support Beyond the Visit

Once your property is fully equipped, Short Term Stay Pros can continue supporting you through listing optimization, photography, and guest management. We handle the behind-the-scenes details that keep your property performing at its best,  so you can focus on enjoying the income without the hassle.

 

Set Your Short-Term Rental Up for Success

A readiness visit isn’t just a checklist; it’s your foundation for long-term profitability. Whether you’re a first-time host or adding another property to your portfolio, this proactive step will save you time, money, and headaches later.

Ready to get started?
Schedule your property readiness visit today, and let’s turn your space into a five-star stay.

👉 Contact Short Term Stay Pros to book your consultation.

More To Explore

Add property manager to Ring Camera and Kwikset Lock
AirBnb Hosts

Add a Property Manager to Your Ring Camera and Kwikset Smart Lock

Learn why adding your property manager to your Ring Camera and Kwikset smart lock is essential for preventing parties, protecting your rental, managing guest access, and ensuring seamless operations. A must-read for short-term rental owners.