Why the First 15 Minutes of a Stay Matter More Than You Think

Most guests won’t remember every detail of their stay — but they’ll remember how it felt when they first arrived.

After years of hosting (and traveling ourselves), we’ve learned that the first 15 minutes set the tone for everything that follows. If arrival feels smooth and stress-free, the rest of the stay usually does too.

That’s why we focus so much on easy access, clear instructions, and intuitive spaces. Guests shouldn’t have to hunt for information or guess what to do next. They should be able to walk in, set their bags down, and settle in.

Cleanliness matters here too — a truly clean home builds trust instantly.

It’s not about adding more amenities. It’s about removing friction.

When arrival feels easy, guests relax faster — and that changes the entire experience.

What’s the first thing you notice when you arrive at a short-term rental?