How to Earn 5-Star Reviews for Your Kenai Peninsula Short-Term Rental

In the fast-paced world of short-term rentals, reviews are everything. One glowing 5-star review can boost your visibility, raise your nightly rate, and lead to repeat bookings. One poor review? It might send potential guests elsewhere.

If you’re hosting on the Kenai Peninsula—whether in Kenai, Soldotna, Homer, Seward, or anywhere in between—these practical tips can help you impress your guests and consistently earn top ratings.

What Guests Are Really Rating

When guests leave a review, they’re judging more than just the mattress comfort. Here’s what typically shapes a guest’s rating:

Top reasons guests give 5 stars:

• Spotless, well-maintained space

• Accurate listing and clear communication

• Thoughtful amenities and extras

• A smooth, welcoming check-in experience

• Beautiful views and good lighting

Common reasons guests lower ratings:

• Dirty or cluttered spaces (especially bathrooms or kitchens)

• Misleading photos or descriptions

• Unresponsive hosts or poor communication

• Maintenance issues (dripping faucets, broken blinds, missing light bulbs)

• Lack of essentials (toilet paper, soap, towels)

Free Ways to Boost Reviews

• Communicate clearly: Send check-in instructions early, respond quickly to questions, and check in after their first night.

• Personal touches: Leave a handwritten welcome note or local recommendations.

• Keep it stocked: Ensure guests have enough basic supplies to last their stay.

• Fix small annoyances: A squeaky door, flickering light, or running toilet can leave a bad impression.

Low-Cost Upgrades That Go a Long Way

• Add warm lighting with updated lamps or soft bulbs

• Replace worn linens or towels with plush, neutral sets

• Install blackout curtains for summer guests who aren’t used to Alaska’s long daylight

• Create a simple welcome basket with coffee, tea, or local snacks

• Add labeled bins for organized recycling and trash

Long-Term Investments That Pay Off

• Update photos seasonally to reflect current decor and views

• Upgrade kitchen tools so guests can cook comfortably

• Add storage solutions like hooks, shelves, and luggage racks

• Improve heating or insulation to keep guests comfortable year-round

• Landscape or enhance the exterior for curb appeal that starts at the driveway

Don’t Overlook Cleanliness—It’s Non-Negotiable

A clean rental is one of the biggest deciding factors in whether guests leave a 5-star review or walk away disappointed. This goes beyond wiping counters—guests notice:

• Windows with fingerprints or water spots

• Fixtures covered in dust

• Moldy or mildewed shower corners

• Cobwebs in corners or porch lights

• Streaked mirrors and glass doors

• Grimy exterior entryways

If you're aiming for consistent 5-star reviews, thorough cleaning—inside and out—is a must.

How Arctic Glass Can Help

At Arctic Glass Window Washing, we help short-term rental owners across the Kenai Peninsula get their properties show-ready. We offer:

• Professional window cleaning (inside and out)

• Gutter and roof edge clearing

• Soft washing for siding, porches, and walkways

A brighter space with crystal-clear windows not only looks better in photos—it helps guests feel like they're staying somewhere truly cared for.

Want help making a great first impression?

Call us at 907-912-0787 or contact us here to schedule a cleaning.