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FREE Short-let Set-up Checklist

In this resource

Published: 21st May 2022

Managament

Short-let & Airbnb Management

Rather than guessing what your property might earn, why not get actual projections based on your actual property? We will use our own data in combination with market analysis tools to provide you with detailed estimates for revenue & costs.

From Empty Space to Guest-Ready Haven

Starting your first Airbnb? The excitement is real – but so is that overwhelming feeling when you’re staring at an empty property wondering where on earth to begin. We’ve been there, and we get it.

 

After managing dozens of short-let properties at Truestays, we’ve learned what works (and what definitely doesn’t). That’s why we created this comprehensive room-by-room checklist – think of it as your furnishing roadmap to creating a space that guests will love and remember.

serviced accommodation checklist

Why Getting It Right Matters More Than You Think

Here’s the thing about short-term rentals: your guests aren’t just booking a bed for the night. They’re looking for an experience, a home away from home. When everything clicks – from the perfect lighting to those little touches that make them smile – you’ll see it reflected in glowing reviews, repeat bookings, and the ability to charge premium rates.

 

But miss the mark? One uncomfortable sofa or a kitchen missing basic essentials, and suddenly you’re dealing with disappointed guests and mediocre ratings. Trust us, it’s worth getting right from the start.

What We've Packed Into This Checklist

Every room tells a story, and we’ve made sure yours will be a good one. Here’s what you’ll find inside:

Living Room: The First Impression Zone

This is where guests form their first real opinion of your space. We’re talking comfortable seating that actually invites you to sink in, lighting that creates the right mood (no harsh overhead bulbs, please!), and those thoughtful touches like soft throws and interesting artwork that transform a space from “functional” to “I want to live here.”

Bedrooms: Where the Magic Happens

Your guests need proper sleep to love their stay. We cover everything from choosing mattresses that don’t leave people counting sheep to creating blackout conditions for those who need complete darkness. Plus all those little details like bedside charging stations and enough hangers for a week’s worth of clothes.

Kitchen: The Heart of the Home

Many guests choose short-lets specifically because they want kitchen access. Whether they’re brewing morning coffee or cooking a family dinner, we’ve got you covered with everything from the obvious (yes, you need a can opener) to the surprisingly essential (sharp knives make all the difference).

Bathrooms: Small Space, Big Impact

Nothing says “amateur host” like scratchy towels or empty soap dispensers. We’ll help you create a spa-like experience without breaking the bank, plus ensure you’re covered for all those practical necessities guests expect but don’t want to think about.

Hallways & Entrances: Setting the Stage

First impressions start at the front door. These often-forgotten spaces can make arriving guests feel instantly welcome or immediately stressed. We’ll show you how to nail that crucial first moment.

Outdoor Spaces: Bonus Points Territory

Got a balcony, garden, or patio? These spaces can be absolute goldmines for attracting bookings, especially when they’re thoughtfully furnished and genuinely usable.

Safety & Maintenance: The Non-Negotiables

This isn’t the fun part, but it’s arguably the most important. From smoke detectors to first aid kits, we cover everything you need to keep guests safe and your property compliant.

How to Actually Use This Thing

We designed this checklist for real life – whether you’re shopping with a tight budget, working with a designer, or somewhere in between. It works perfectly for:

  • First-time hosts who need guidance on literally everything
  • Experienced property managers expanding their portfolio
  • Landlords making the switch from long-term to short-term lets
  • Anyone who wants to avoid those “Oh no, I forgot about…” moments

Print it out and tick things off as you go, or keep it handy on your phone while you’re shopping. We’ve included quantity suggestions and highlighted the items that can really make or break a guest’s experience.

The Smart Approach to Furnishing

Every item in your property should earn its keep – either by making guests happier or helping you earn more. We’re not talking about filling every corner with expensive designer pieces. Instead, we focus on choosing items that are durable enough to handle multiple guests, functional enough to solve real problems, and attractive enough to photograph well.
The checklist includes tried-and-tested recommendations based on what actually works in short-let properties, plus tips for tailoring your setup to different guest types. Business travelers have different needs than families on holiday, and getting this right can significantly impact your booking success.

Ready to Get Started?

Your perfectly furnished short-let property is just a download away. This comprehensive checklist is completely free and includes everything you need to transform your space into a guest magnet.

serviced accommodation checklist

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Set-up Checklist

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