Mastering Guest Stay Extensions - Extend like a pro ✨

Hey there! Dealing with a guest who wants to extend their stay is a great opportunity to provide exceptional service and maximize your Airbnb profits. Here's how I handle these situations:

When a guest expresses interest in extending their stay, it's important to respond promptly and professionally. Here are the steps I recommend taking:

1. Assess availability: Check your calendar to see if the desired extension dates are available. If they are, great! If not, offer alternative dates if possible. Keep in mind any upcoming bookings or maintenance work that may affect availability.

2. Review pricing: Determine the rate for the extended stay. Consider factors such as seasonality, demand, and any discounts you may offer for longer stays. If the guest is requesting a significant extension, you may want to offer a discounted rate as an incentive.

3. Communicate with the guest: Reach out to the guest and let them know about the availability and pricing. Be clear and transparent about the rates and any additional fees that may apply. Use the Airbnb messaging system to keep a record of your conversation for future reference.

4. Negotiate if necessary: If the guest finds the pricing too high or has specific budget constraints, be open to negotiation. Consider offering a compromise, such as a shorter extension or a discounted rate for a longer stay. Finding a win-win solution can help maintain a positive relationship with the guest.

5. Update the booking: Once both parties have agreed on the extension details, update the booking through the Airbnb platform. Adjust the reservation dates, update the pricing, and send a booking modification request to the guest. Remind the guest to review and accept the modification to finalize the extension.

6. Prepare for the extended stay: Make sure your property is ready for the guest's extended stay. Coordinate with your cleaning team to schedule a thorough cleaning before their extended arrival. Double-check that all amenities and supplies are stocked and in good condition.

Extended Stay Preparation Checklist

TaskDescriptionFrequencyResponsible Party
Property CleaningThorough cleaning of the entire property including bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, and common areasBefore guest arrivalCleaning Team
Amenities CheckEnsure all amenities like Wi-Fi, TV, heating/cooling systems, appliances are working properlyBefore guest arrivalHost/Property Manager
Supplies StockingCheck and restock essential supplies like toiletries, kitchen essentials, cleaning supplies, etc.Before guest arrival and weekly during stayHost/Property Manager
Maintenance CheckInspect the property for any maintenance issues like plumbing, electrical, structural, etc.Before guest arrival and as neededHost/Property Manager
Safety CheckVerify the proper functioning of safety devices like smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, etc.Before guest arrival and monthly during stayHost/Property Manager
CommunicationCoordinate with the guest about their arrival, stay, and any specific needs they might haveAs neededHost/Property Manager

7. Provide a seamless transition: When the guest arrives for their extended stay, greet them warmly and ensure a smooth transition. Offer to answer any questions they may have and provide them with any necessary information or instructions. Consider leaving a welcome note or a small gesture to show your appreciation for their extended stay.

By handling guest extensions with professionalism and attentiveness, you can create a positive experience for your guests and increase your chances of receiving positive reviews and repeat bookings. Remember, exceptional guest experiences are key to becoming an Airbnb Superhost!

I hope these tips help you handle guest extensions like a pro. If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out. Happy hosting!

Donna D'Amore
hospitality, event planning, yoga, sustainable living

Donna is a seasoned Airbnb Superhost and experienced property manager with a comprehensive background in the hospitality sector. She has successfully handled a vast array of properties, spanning from city apartments to opulent villas, and is deeply committed to delivering outstanding guest experiences.