Guidebook Sections Deep-Dive

Tier: All Plans (Trial/Growth/Business)
Time: 20-30 minutes to complete all sections
Prerequisites: Created property and guidebook

Overview

Your digital guidebook is organized into 9 default sections, each covering essential information guests need during their stay. This guide provides detailed templates, examples, and best practices for each section to help you create a comprehensive, helpful guidebook that reduces guest questions and improves their experience.

Guidebook Editor

The 9 Default Sections

Every new guidebook includes these sections:

Check-in Instructions 🔑
WiFi Information 📶
House Rules 🏠
Appliance Instructions 📺
Local Recommendations 🍽️
Parking Information 🚗
Trash & Recycling ♻️
Emergency Contacts 🚨
Check-out Instructions 🔓

Section 1: Check-in Instructions 🔑

Purpose

Help guests access your property without confusion or delays.

What to Include

Access Method:

Key location (lockbox, key exchange, etc.)
Access codes (door, lockbox, garage)
Smart lock instructions
Gate codes

Timing:

Check-in time (e.g., "Check-in after 3:00 PM")
Early check-in policy
Late arrival instructions

Parking:

Where to park initially
Loading zone information
Unloading tips

Entry:

Which door to use
How to unlock
Where keys/fobs are
Alarm system (if applicable)

Template

**Check-In Time:** 3:00 PM

**How to Access:**
1. Park in driveway (spot #3)
2. Find lockbox on front door handle
3. Code: 1234 (reset to 0000 when you leave)
4. Key inside unlocks main door
5. Place key on kitchen counter

**Smart Lock Instructions:**
- Your unique code: [sent via SMS]
- Enter code + press checkmark
- Door unlocks automatically

**Need early check-in?** Text me at (555) 123-4567

**Arriving after 10 PM?** Please enter quietly - neighbors nearby.

Examples by Property Type

Apartment Building:

1. Enter building via main entrance (code: #5678)
2. Take elevator to 3rd floor
3. Unit 304 - use key from lockbox in mailroom
4. Mailbox #304, combination: R-12, L-8, R-4

Vacation Rental with Keyless Entry:

Your custom door code: [unique-code]
Valid from [check-in date] to [check-out date]

1. Approach front door
2. Wake up keypad (touch screen)
3. Enter your 4-digit code
4. Turn handle within 5 seconds

House with Key Exchange:

Meet me at the property at your scheduled check-in time.
If you can't reach me: Key is hidden under the blue flower pot on the left side of the porch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Forgetting to update codes
❌ Unclear lockbox location
❌ No backup plan for issues
❌ Missing gate/building access info
❌ Assuming guests know local area

Section 2: WiFi Information 📶

Purpose

The #1 thing guests ask about. Make it crystal clear!

What to Include

Network Name (SSID):

Exact spelling and capitalization
Which network if you have multiple

Password:

Exact password (case-sensitive)
Use copyable format
Note special characters

Instructions:

How to connect
Troubleshooting tips
Router location (if needed)

Template

**Network Name:** BeachHouse_Guest

**Password:** MySecurePass123!

**How to Connect:**
1. Open WiFi settings on your device
2. Select "BeachHouse_Guest"
3. Enter password exactly as shown above
4. Connected! 🎉

**Not working?**
- Check spelling & capitalization
- Router is in hall closet - try restarting it
- Text me if issues persist: (555) 123-4567

**Internet Speed:** 100 Mbps download, 20 Mbps upload
**Good for:** Streaming, video calls, remote work

Pro Tips

✅ Test it yourself - Verify password works
✅ Use a guest network - Separate from your personal WiFi
✅ Include speed - Manage expectations for work calls
✅ Router location - In case they need to reset
✅ Backup options - Public WiFi nearby if yours fails

Examples by Setup

Mesh Network:

We use a mesh network - connects automatically as you move around the house.
Network: HomeGuest | Password: Welcome2024
Note: May see "HomeGuest-2" or "HomeGuest-3" - same network, all work great!

Multiple Networks:

**Main House:** HouseWiFi | Password: House123
**Guesthouse:** GuestWiFi | Password: Guest456
**Patio Area:** (use House WiFi, extends outside)

Simple Password:

**Network:** SimpleStay
**Password:** welcome (all lowercase, no spaces)

Tip: We use an easy password so you can connect instantly!

Section 3: House Rules 🏠

Purpose

Set clear expectations while keeping a welcoming tone.

What to Include

Smoking Policy:

Where allowed (if anywhere)
Fines for violations

Pets Policy:

Allowed or not
Size/breed restrictions
Fees
Rules (leash, cleanup)

Noise/Quiet Hours:

Quiet hours (e.g., 10 PM - 8 AM)
Neighbor considerations
Party policy

Guest Count:

Maximum occupancy
Overnight guests policy
Day visitors

Other Rules:

Shoes off/on
Food in bedrooms
Pool/hot tub rules
Candles/incense

Template (Friendly Tone)

We want you to feel at home! Here are a few simple guidelines:

**🚭 No Smoking**
We're a smoke-free property (inside and out). If you need to smoke, there's a designated area 100 ft away near the street.

**🐕 Pets**
Sorry, we're unable to accommodate pets due to allergies. Service animals always welcome!

**🔇 Quiet Hours**
Please keep noise down between 10 PM - 8 AM. We have close neighbors who appreciate a peaceful environment.

**👥 Guest Count**
This property sleeps 6 comfortably. Maximum occupancy: 8 guests.
No unregistered overnight guests, please.

**🎉 Events**
This is a residential property - no parties, weddings, or large gatherings.

**🏊 Pool Rules**
- No diving
- Close gate when done
- No glass containers
- Children must be supervised

Thank you for respecting our home and neighbors! 🏡

Balancing Friendly vs. Firm

Too Strict:

❌ "ABSOLUTELY NO PARTIES. VIOLATORS WILL BE FINED $500 AND EVICTED."

Too Lenient:

❌ "Just have fun! Do whatever you want!"

Just Right:

✅ "We love when guests have a great time! To keep this property amazing for future guests, we ask that you avoid large gatherings. If you'd like to host a small dinner (8-10 people), just let us know in advance. Thanks for understanding!"

Section 4: Appliance Instructions 📺

Purpose

Prevent guest frustration and reduce "how does this work?" messages.

What to Include

TV & Entertainment:

How to turn on TV
Remote controls (which one for what)
Streaming services available
WiFi password (reference Section 2)

Climate Control:

Thermostat operation
Optimal temperature settings
Ceiling fan controls
Space heater locations (winter)

Kitchen Appliances:

Coffee maker instructions
Dishwasher detergent location
Oven/stove peculiarities
Microwave specifics

Laundry:

Washer/dryer location
Detergent provided or BYO
Settings to use
Lint trap reminder

Other:

Hot tub/jacuzzi
Fireplace
Sound system
Game console

Template

**📺 TV & Entertainment**
- Turn on TV: Use Samsung remote (black one)
- Switch inputs: Press "Source" button
- Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ all logged in - enjoy!
- Apple TV remote is the small silver one

**❄️ AC / Heat**
- Nest thermostat on wall (main hallway)
- Current season recommended: 72°F
- Tap screen to adjust
- Please keep between 68-76°F

**☕ Coffee Maker**
- Keurig on counter (K-cups in cabinet above)
- Fill reservoir daily
- Press power, insert pod, press brew size

**🍽️ Dishwasher**
- Pods under sink
- Place one pod in main compartment
- Press "Normal" cycle
- Runs quietly - great for overnight

**👕 Washer & Dryer**
- In laundry room (off kitchen)
- Tide pods provided
- Washer: Use "Normal" setting
- Dryer: Use "Medium" heat
- Clean lint trap after each use!

**🔥 Fireplace**
- Gas fireplace - easy to use
- Switch on wall to right of fireplace
- Flip up for ON, down for OFF
- Creates great ambiance!

**Need help?** Most appliances have manuals in the kitchen drawer (right of sink).

Pro Tips

✅ Take photos - Show remotes, controls, buttons
✅ Label remotes - "TV Remote", "Apple TV", etc.
✅ Highlight quirks - "Door handle sticks sometimes - pull firmly"
✅ Provide manuals - Digital links or physical location
✅ Test everything - Before each guest arrival

Section 5: Local Recommendations 🍽️

Purpose

Help guests discover the best local spots and have a memorable stay.

What to Include

Restaurants:

Your top 3-5 favorites
Cuisine type
Price range
Distance from property
Reservation tips

Attractions:

Must-see sights
Hidden gems
Seasonal activities
Distance/drive time

Activities:

Hiking trails
Beaches
Museums
Shopping
Nightlife

Services:

Grocery stores
Pharmacies
Gas stations
ATMs
Urgent care

Template

**🍽️ Restaurants**

*The Local Catch* - Seafood ⭐ Favorite!
Fresh seafood, amazing sunset views
5 min drive | $$$ | Reservations recommended
(555) 111-2222 | locаlcatch.com

*Pizza Paradise* - Italian
Best pizza in town, family-friendly
10 min walk | $$ | No reservations needed

*Maria's Tacos* - Mexican
Authentic street tacos, cash only
3 min drive | $ | Open late (until midnight!)

**☕ Coffee Shops**
- *Brew Haven* - Best coffee (2 blocks away)
- *Morning Joe's* - Pastries + WiFi (5 min walk)

**🏖️ Must-Do Activities**

*Sunset Beach* - 15 min drive
Perfect for swimming, less crowded than Main Beach
Parking: $10/day (bring cash)

*Lighthouse Trail* - 20 min drive
Easy 2-mile hike, spectacular views
Best at sunrise or sunset

*Downtown Arts District* - 10 min drive
Galleries, shops, street performers
Wednesday farmer's market (4-8 PM)

**🛒 Essentials**

*Whole Foods* - 5 min drive (open 24/7)
*CVS Pharmacy* - 3 min drive
*Gas Station* - Shell, corner of Main & 5th

**Insider Tips:**
- Avoid downtown on Saturday mornings (farmer's market traffic)
- Best sunset spot: Pier Park (10 min drive)
- Free parking on weekdays after 6 PM downtown

Making Recommendations Personal

Generic:

❌ "There are restaurants nearby. Check Yelp."

Personal:

✅ "My absolute favorite is The Local Catch - get the seafood platter and sit on the patio for sunset. Tell them Sarah sent you!"

Section 6: Parking Information 🚗

Purpose

Prevent parking tickets, towing, and neighbor complaints.

What to Include

Where to Park:

Assigned spots
Street parking rules
Guest parking
Overflow options

Permits/Passes:

Parking passes location
How to display
Where to return

Restrictions:

No parking zones
Permit-only areas
Time limits
Overnight rules

Alternative Options:

Nearby lots
Paid parking
Public transportation

Template

**🚗 Your Parking**

*Driveway:* 2 cars fit comfortably
- Spot 1: In front of garage (don't block garage door!)
- Spot 2: Behind Spot 1

*Street Parking:* Available in front of house
- Free and unrestricted
- Residential area - very safe

**⚠️ Important:**
- DO NOT park in neighbor's driveway (to the left)
- Red curbs = no parking (city will tow!)
- Street sweeping: Tuesdays 8-10 AM (move car or get ticket)

**RV/Trailer/Boat:**
Not permitted in driveway. Public lot 2 blocks away: 123 Harbor St ($15/day)

**Additional Vehicles:**
Overflow parking lot at Community Center (5 min walk)
123 Community Blvd - free, well-lit, 24/7 access

**Need Help?**
Text me a photo of your car and I'll tell you if you're good! (555) 123-4567

Section 7: Trash & Recycling ♻️

Purpose

Keep property clean and avoid attracting pests or city fines.

What to Include

Trash Schedule:

Collection days
What time to put out
Where bins are located

Recycling:

What can be recycled
Separate bins or mixed
Rinsing requirements

Composting:

If available
What goes in compost
Where bin is located

Special Items:

Batteries
Electronics
Large items

During Stay:

Where to put trash
Bag liners location
Taking out trash

Template

**🗑️ Trash & Recycling**

**During Your Stay:**
- Kitchen trash: Under sink
- Bathroom trash: Small bins in each bathroom
- Extra bags: In pantry (bottom shelf)
- Take trash out when full → Large bins in garage

**Collection Day:** Every Thursday morning (7 AM)
If you're staying over a Thursday:
1. Roll bins to curb Wednesday night
2. Bring back after pickup (anytime Thursday)
3. Bins are in garage - green (trash), blue (recycling)

**♻️ Recycling (Blue Bin):**
YES: ✅
- Paper, cardboard (flatten boxes)
- Plastic bottles & containers (#1-7)
- Glass bottles/jars (rinse)
- Aluminum cans

NO: ❌
- Food waste
- Plastic bags
- Styrofoam
- Pizza boxes with grease

**🌱 Compost (Small Counter Bin):**
- Fruit/veggie scraps
- Coffee grounds & filters
- Eggshells
- NO meat, dairy, or oils

Dump in backyard compost bin when full.

**Large Items:**
If you accidentally break something large, just let me know and I'll arrange pickup!

Section 8: Emergency Contacts 🚨

Purpose

Ensure guest safety and provide quick access to help.

What to Include

Emergency Services:

911 (obvious but include it)
Local police non-emergency
Fire department
Poison control

Host Contact:

Your phone number
Best times to reach
Response time expectation
Backup contact

Property Manager:

If you use one
When to contact vs. you
Phone number

Utilities:

Electric company
Gas company
Water company
Internet provider

Other:

Nearest hospital/ER
Urgent care
24-hour pharmacy
Locksmith (if locked out)

Template

**🚨 Emergency Contacts**

**Immediate Emergency:** Call 911
(Police, Fire, Ambulance)

**Your Host (Me!):** Sarah
📱 (555) 123-4567 (call or text anytime!)
I respond within 30 minutes, usually much faster.

**Property Issues:**
- Plumbing: Joe's Plumbing (555) 111-2222
- HVAC: Cool Air (555) 222-3333
- Locksmith: 24/7 Keys (555) 444-5555
- Electrician: Bright Electric (555) 666-7777

**Medical:**
- *St. Mary's Hospital* - 10 min drive
  123 Hospital Rd | (555) 999-8888
- *Urgent Care* - 5 min drive  
  456 Main St | Open 8 AM-10 PM
- *24-Hour Pharmacy* - CVS
  789 Oak Ave | (555) 777-6666

**Utilities:**
- Electric: City Power (555) 111-0000
- Gas: Metro Gas (555) 222-0000
- Water: City Water (555) 333-0000
- Internet: Comcast (555) 444-0000

**Non-Emergency Police:** (555) 555-0000

**Poison Control:** 1-800-222-1222

**What to Do in an Emergency:**
1. Call 911 if life-threatening
2. Text/call me immediately
3. I'll come help or send help right away
4. Stay calm - you're going to be okay!

Safety Features to Mention

Include info about:

Fire extinguisher locations
First aid kit location
Smoke/CO detector locations
Emergency exits
Flashlight locations (power outage)
Water shut-off valve
Circuit breaker panel

Section 9: Check-out Instructions 🔓

Purpose

Ensure smooth departure and prepare property for next guests.

What to Include

Check-out Time:

Specific time (e.g., 11:00 AM)
Late checkout options/fees
What happens if you leave late

What to Do:

Reasonable departure tasks
Not a full cleaning list
Simple, respectful requests

Keys/Access:

Where to leave keys
How to lock up
Alarm system (if applicable)
Lockbox/code reset

Utilities:

Turn off AC/heat
Turn off lights
Close windows
Lock doors

Garbage:

Take out trash (if full)
Start dishwasher (if used)
Basic tidying

Review Request:

Link to leave review
Appreciation message

Template (Reasonable)

**🔓 Check-Out Instructions**

**Check-Out Time:** 11:00 AM

**Need more time?**
Late checkout (until 2 PM): $50 (if available)
Text me before 9 AM day of checkout to arrange.

**Before You Leave (5 minutes):**

☑️ **Trash:** Place full bags in outdoor bins
☑️ **Dishes:** Load & start dishwasher (pods under sink)
☑️ **Linens:** Strip beds, leave linens on bathroom floor
☑️ **Utilities:** Turn off AC/heat, all lights
☑️ **Windows/Doors:** Close and lock all
☑️ **Thermostat:** Set to 70°F
☑️ **Keys:** Leave on kitchen counter

**Don't worry about:**
- Deep cleaning (we handle that!)
- Making beds
- Mopping/vacuuming
- Wiping down surfaces

**Lockbox:**
- Place key inside lockbox
- Scramble the code (spin to 0000)

**Final Touches:**
- Quick walkthrough for forgotten items
- Close garage door
- Lock front door behind you

**Thank You!** 🎉

We hope you had an amazing stay! If you have a moment, we'd be so grateful for a review:
[Review Link]

Safe travels, and we'd love to host you again!

**Forgot something?** Text me ASAP: (555) 123-4567
I'll grab it and ship it to you!

What NOT to Ask

Too Much:

❌ Vacuum entire house
❌ Clean bathrooms thoroughly
❌ Wash all dishes and put away
❌ Mop floors
❌ Clean windows
❌ Dust all surfaces
❌ Sanitize countertops

Just Right:

✅ Start dishwasher if you used dishes
✅ Take out trash if full
✅ Strip beds
✅ Turn off AC/lights
✅ Lock up

Why: Guests already paid for cleaning. Keep checkout tasks minimal and reasonable (5-10 minutes max).

Adding Custom Sections

Beyond the default 9, you can add custom sections for:

Property-Specific:

Hot Tub Instructions
Boat/Kayak Rental Info
Pool Rules
Game Room Guide
Outdoor Grill Instructions

Location-Specific:

Beach Access
Ski Lift Tickets
National Park Entry
Hiking Trail Maps
Fishing License Info

Experience-Specific:

Wine Tasting Tours
Spa Recommendations
Golf Course Info
Water Sports Rentals
Local Events Calendar

How to Add:

Go to Guidebook Editor
Click "+ Add Section"
Enter section title
Add content
Drag to reorder

Content Writing Tips

Be Clear and Concise

Wordy:

❌ "The WiFi network, which you'll need in order to connect your devices to the internet, is called 'BeachHouse' and the password that you'll need to type in is 'Welcome123'."

Better:

✅ **WiFi:** BeachHouse | **Password:** Welcome123

Use Formatting

Bold for emphasis
Line breaks for readability
Bullet points for lists
Emojis for visual hierarchy
Numbers for steps

Write Like You're Talking to a Friend

Too Formal:

❌ "Guests are hereby required to maintain noise levels at a reasonable volume during designated quiet hours."

Friendly:

✅ "Please keep it down after 10 PM - our neighbors appreciate a peaceful evening!"

Test on Mobile

90% of guests view on phones
Use short paragraphs
Break up long text
Make phone numbers/addresses tappable

Updating Your Guidebook

When to Update

Immediately:

WiFi password changes
Access code changes
Emergency contact changes
Major house rule changes

Seasonally:

Local recommendations (new restaurants)
Seasonal activities
Holiday hours
Weather-specific tips

Annually:

Review all content
Remove closed businesses
Add new attractions
Update photos

Best Practices Checklist

✅ Complete all 9 sections - Don't leave defaults
✅ Test everything - Verify codes, WiFi, instructions
✅ Get fresh eyes - Have friend review for clarity
✅ Update regularly - Keep information current
✅ Be specific - Exact times, codes, addresses
✅ Be friendly - Welcoming tone throughout
✅ Be visual - Use emojis, formatting, spacing
✅ Be helpful - Anticipate guest questions
✅ Proofread - Check spelling, grammar, codes
✅ Mobile-test - View on your phone

What's Next?

After completing your guidebook sections:

✅ Preview Guest View - See what guests see
✅ Generate QR Code - Create printable QR code
✅ Import Bookings - Add guests (Growth+)
✅ Custom Branding - Make it yours (Growth+)

Need Help?

Video Tutorial: Watch: Guidebook Content Tips
Templates: Download section templates at /resources
Support: support@guestloop.com
Community: Share your best guidebook tips in the forum!

Great guidebook content = Fewer questions + Better reviews + Happier guests! 📝✨

Guidebook Sections Deep-Dive

Guidebook Sections Deep-Dive

Overview

The 9 Default Sections

Section 1: Check-in Instructions 🔑

Purpose

What to Include

Template

Examples by Property Type

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Section 2: WiFi Information 📶

Purpose

What to Include

Template

Pro Tips

Examples by Setup

Section 3: House Rules 🏠

Purpose

What to Include

Template (Friendly Tone)

Balancing Friendly vs. Firm

Section 4: Appliance Instructions 📺

Purpose

What to Include

Template

Pro Tips

Section 5: Local Recommendations 🍽️

Purpose

What to Include

Template

Making Recommendations Personal

Section 6: Parking Information 🚗

Purpose

What to Include

Template

Section 7: Trash & Recycling ♻️

Purpose

What to Include

Template

Section 8: Emergency Contacts 🚨

Purpose

What to Include

Template

Safety Features to Mention

Section 9: Check-out Instructions 🔓

Purpose

What to Include

Template (Reasonable)

What NOT to Ask

Adding Custom Sections

Content Writing Tips

Be Clear and Concise

Use Formatting

Write Like You're Talking to a Friend

Test on Mobile

Updating Your Guidebook

When to Update

Best Practices Checklist

What's Next?

Need Help?

Need More Help?

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