How to create a guidebook for your vacation rental property

What is a Guidebook?

A guidebook is a resource for guests that includes essential information about your property, local area tips, and stay guidelines. While traditional guidebooks often come in printed or PDF formats, digital guidebooks take it to the next level by offering easy-to-update, mobile-friendly options.

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What to include in your guidebook 

Property Basics

• How to Access the Unit: Provide clear instructions for entry, including access codes, lockbox details, or key locations. Include information on unlocking the unit, access times, and parking details. 
• Property Information: Share directions to your property so guests don’t get lost, the full address, and any special notes to help guests arrive smoothly. 
• Checkout Details: Specify checkout time and steps, such as tidying up, returning keys, or locking doors before departure. 
• House Rules -  Outline rules for pets, smoking policies, quiet hours, and maximum number of guests allowed to set expectations upfront.  
• Amenities - List what amenities are offered and where to access them. 

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Local Recommendations 

• Restaurants 
• Nearby attractions
• Activities and tours 
• Transportation

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Helpful Resources

• Property Contact Information - Make it simple for guests to reach you or your property manager.
• Appliance and Technology Guide: Offer easy-to-follow instructions for using kitchen appliances, the washer/dryer, thermostat, TV, and remote controls.

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Increase productivity, revenue, and save time with Digital Guidebooks

Digital guidebooks are a modern, efficient alternative to printed booklets. Akia’s digital guidebooks are mobile-friendly, customizable, and can be updated in real time.

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Personalized for each guest - Create a single guidebook for all your units and let Akia do the rest. Custom fields automatically personalize details like unique access codes and Wi-Fi credentials for each unit.

Example: Instead of managing multiple guidebooks, Akia customizes one guide to display unit-specific information, such as access codes and Wi-Fi details. 

Reduce Guest Inquiries - Reduce repetitive guest inquiries by providing all essential information in one place, minimizing common questions like:

• How do I unlock the door?
• Where is the pool located?
• What time is checkout?

Ski Country Resorts automated 80% of their manual tasks by automating personalized digital guidebooks and sending it to guests automatically.

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Accessible Anytime, Anywhere - Guests can access their guidebooks directly on their mobile phones without downloading an app. A simple link gives them all the property information they need, anytime they need it.

Save Time with Seamless Updates

Forget the hassle of updating and replacing printed materials for every unit. With Akia’s digital guidebooks, updates are made once in the platform and automatically applied across all units. This saves time, eliminates printing costs, and ensures information is always up to date.

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Easy-to-Use Interface

Our drag-and-drop interface allows anyone to design and create professional templates effortlessly—no tech expertise is required.

Capture Additional Revenue

Allow guests to make digital purchases for food, experience packages, or other items directly through Akia’s Mini App. Orders are processed seamlessly, giving you an easy way to increase revenue. Providing them the convenience of making purchases on their phone will increase revenue. Cedar Lakes Estate generated 20k in upsells per month by increasing exposure of available items and texting guests a digital order form, making the checkout process as seamless as possible.