Български
Self check in – what is it!
Self check-in provides guests with the opportunity to check in themselves to the apartment whenever they wish after the specified check-in time. The most popular methods are smart locks with a code, key boxes with a code that are installed on the building. Before, during and after the Covid-19 pandemic, self-check-in was and remains the most preferred option for short-term rental properties in Sofia and around the world. During the pandemic, this provided guests with the certainty that they would not meet other people when checking in, and this would reduce the risk of illness. I dare say that this is the most preferred way of accommodation by guests. SofiaLuxRentals offers its guests several types of accommodation, but what we note is that guests prefer the freedom of the self-check-in method. This is a process in which guests can check in whenever they want, during a trip there are always unforeseen situations, flights are delayed, navigation confused the route, road repairs, traffic, etc. Determining the exact check-in time is quite stressful for guests considering the factors we listed above. All these inconveniences can be saved for guests by self-check-in. Also, this method brings many advantages for property owners.
Why is self-check-in a preferred choice for guests?
✅Flexibility and convenience – One of the main reasons why guests prefer self-check-in is the freedom it provides them. As we have already mentioned, check-in at a time convenient for them. This method is extremely useful for people traveling with delayed flights, business travelers with dynamic schedules or tourists who want maximum flexibility during their stay.
✅Quick and easy process – Self-check-in eliminates the need to coordinate with the host to hand over the keys to the apartment they will be staying in during their stay. Instead of arranging appointments with a specific time, the stress of rushing to be late can affect their experience whether they are traveling for leisure or business. They simply need to follow the instructions provided by the host for their seamless self-check-in.
✅Less social engagement – Some guests prefer to avoid contact with the host due to personal preferences or language barriers. Self-check-in allows travelers to be more free and independent.
✅Increased security and discretion – Technological solutions such as smart locks and coded key safes provide better security. Guests have the certainty that their access code is unique and individual and there is no way for anyone else to gain access to the accommodation they have rented.
✅Ideal for night arrivals and early departures – Self-check-in systems are an undeniable convenience for people who arrive late at night or have to leave early in the morning. They don’t have to bother the host and avoid the inconvenience of waiting to gain access to the apartment and hand over the keys upon departure.
How self-check-in also provides convenience and flexibility for hosts of short-term rental properties.
Self-check-in brings with it not only convenience and flexibility for guests but also for the owners of properties renting them out for short-term accommodation:
✅Less commitments and time savings – hosts do not have to be physically present for each check-in and check-out.
✅A greater chance of bookings – the flexibility of self-check-in attracts more guests, which increases the occupancy of the property.
✅Increased security and control – owners can use technologies such as smart locks to monitor access and change codes after each guest.
✅Less risk of errors and delays – the lack of a human factor when handing over the keys eliminates the possibility of delays or misunderstandings.
Conclusion
Self-hosting is a convenient, secure and modern way to manage short-term rentals, which brings benefits to both guests and hosts. In the dynamic tourism market of Sofia, this practice is becoming the standard for successful management of overnight properties. If you are a property owner, implementing a self-hosting system can significantly increase the attractiveness of your property and provide a better experience for your guests.