What to expect 

It’s important to know that while there are significant upsides of choosing to be a short
term rental host (increased $$$!), there are also some downsides we’d like to make you aware
of.

● Revenue fluctuations

Short-term rentals typically generate higher income over the course of a year compared to long-term leases. However, income can vary month to month. Slower seasons (typically November through March) may bring in less revenue, but this is often offset by higher earnings during peak months (April through October).
 

● Occupancy

Occupancy rates vary by location and season. In slower months, rates may dip to around 50%, while in peak months, they can reach 90% or more. If your listing launches in the summer, you can typically expect your first booking within 1–2 weeks. Launching in slower months like November may mean waiting 3–4 weeks for your first reservation.

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● Wear & tear

With frequent guest stays, some wear and tear is to be expected—including scuffed walls or floors, chipped paint, dead plants (guests rarely water them), and furniture or decor slightly out of place. This is a normal part of short-term rentals. At Home Sweet Host, we do not hold guests responsible for standard wear and tear, nor do we charge for it.

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● Breakage

Most guests are respectful—just like you and me—but occasional breakage is part of hosting. Minor items like glassware, dishes, or utensils may break from time to time, and occasionally small appliances may be affected. At Home Sweet Host, we only seek reimbursement from guests if the damage exceeds $50 or is considered excessive.

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● Increase in trash and utilities

Short-term rentals naturally lead to higher trash volume and utility usage. We recommend upgrading to larger garbage and recycling bins to accommodate guest stays. While we encourage guests to properly sort waste, it's not always strictly followed. Utilities—such as water, electricity, and gas—may also increase, especially during peak occupancy, as guests tend to use more than homeowners typically would.

● Neighbors

While you're not required to inform neighbors about your short-term rental, it’s often a good idea—especially if you have a positive relationship with them. At Home Sweet Host, we take neighbor relations seriously and remind guests of quiet hours and house rules multiple times throughout the booking and check-in process to help ensure a peaceful stay for everyone.

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● Most common maintenance issues

○ Clogged/leaking toilets and drains
○ Broken appliances
○ Loose or broken handles, doorknobs, and high-use fixtures
○ Burned-out light bulbs
○ Ants, insects, or occasional pest concerns
○ Wi-Fi and cable disruptions (Be sure to complete our Listing Info Form thoroughly to help us troubleshoot quickly!)

 

● Household items that will need replacing and when

● Glassware and dish ware - Every 18 months
● Batteries
● Keyless entry: Every 6-12 months
● Smoke Detectors: Every 6-12 months
● CO Monitors: Every 12 months
● Remotes: Every 12 months

● Light Bulbs: Every 6-12 months

● Pillows: Every 12 months

 

● Information that you should know about Short Term Rental laws in Your County

 

○ Sonoma County Permit Sonoma

○ San Francisco Office of Short Term Rentals

○ San Mateo STR Registration & Requirement

○ Marin Country Short Term Rental License

 

● Other reminders

○ Remove any valuables or sentimental items
○ Replace high-maintenance plants with low-maintenance or faux greenery
○ Purchase a mattress protector for each bed (See checklist)
○ Double-check that all listed amenities and appliances are clean and in working order

 

Home Sweet Host provides the most extensive, hands-on experience of any short-term vacation listing management company. We encourage you to ask questions until you’re familiar with the
process. Please reach out for anything!