In the competitive landscape of short-term rentals, standing out is about more than just location and decor—it’s about the unique experience you can offer to your guests. Houstr empowers property owners to redefine the guest experience by transforming their spaces into interactive marketplaces.
Some hosts choose to create a store specifically for pre-arrival needs, during stay needs, and a public store that they can post on their website or Instagram. Others create a separate store for services/experiences vs products. Another common strategy is to create a single comprehensive store that they share with everyone. Regardless of how you decide to leverage Houstr and share it with visitors, we hope that the below information can give you enough inspiration to get started.
Remember, you can always check to see if a site is monetizable by using the Houstr Host Store. Some brands pay up to 90 days after a link is clicked, and most will compensate you on the full purchase. Be creative, add value, and your guests will love you and wallet will thank you.
Product Types
| Self-Managed | Amazon | Affiliate |
| These are created and managed by you where the sale occurs on Houstr. | Any item from Amazon. Simply copy & paste then link to add to your Guest Store. | Any link from one of our 10K+ brand partners. These can include products, services, and experiences. |
Put Yourself In Your Guests Shoes
The most important thing you can do when utilizing Houstr and all of it’s features is to put yourself in your guests’ shoes. Do you have a lot of guests coming to your property for a specific reason? Maybe they’re coming to ski. In that case you should offer a ski rental upsell through one of our skiing partners. Maybe they’d be interested in a bourbon tour. You can browse our various partners and find a tour that you would book and include it in your store.
Thinking about your guests’ needs, your local area, and your willingness to provide add-on services is going to give you the greatest chance for success.
Travel Services:
Before your guests even set foot in your property, you can facilitate their journey. Build a store and add car rentals, arrange airport transfers, or secure tickets for local events, ensuring a stress-free arrival.
Personalized Services:
Anticipate your guests’ needs by offering personalized services they can book ahead of their stay. From a stocked fridge with their favorite snacks to scheduling a private chef for an in-home dining experience, these services can make a world of difference.
Local Gift Store:
Introduce your guests to the local culture by featuring products from local artisans and gift stores in your Houstr shop. Whether you decide to have a real life gift shop or digital only, you can add pieces from your favorite local makers, providing a personalized touch that celebrates the local community.
Furnishings and Home Goods:
As your guests settle in, they’ll interact with the carefully chosen elements of your home. Everything from the sofa to the soft throw blankets can be available for purchase, allowing guests to bring a piece of their vacation back home.
Appliances and Electronics:
Highlight the convenience and luxury of your property by showcasing the high-end appliances and electronics you have on offer. Guests can purchase the items they’ve enjoyed using, such as a state-of-the-art espresso machine or a smart thermostat.
Food and Beverage:
Delight foodie travelers with a selection of gourmet options they can enjoy during their stay. A curated mini-bar or selection of local wines can enhance their experience and serve as a reminder of their travels when they opt to buy.
Unique Upsells:
Create unique upsells tailored to your guests while they’re staying with you. Whether it’s an exclusive cooking class with a local chef or a customized city tour, these experiences not only generate revenue but also enrich the stay.
Local Experiences:
Encourage your guests to immerse themselves in the local scene by offering bookings for tours and experiences. This not only supports the local economy but also positions your rental as a gateway to authentic local adventures.
Conclusion:
With Houstr, your rental property becomes more than just a place to stay—it becomes a curated experience that starts before arrival and continues throughout the guest’s stay. By providing a mix of products, services, and experiences you can optimize your guests experience and earn more in the process. Stay tuned as we build out a directory of brands and make it easier than ever to locate ideal items for your store.
Happy Hosting!
