7 Costly Mistakes Every Short-Term Rental Homeowner Should Avoid

Designer Jasmine Roth (host of Help! I Wrecked My House) is on a mission with comedian Leslie Jones. In their show Roast My Rental, the duo visits some of the worst short-term rental properties in the United States, then attempts to flip them in 72 hours. After seeing a slew of sketchy properties, these two know exactly what short-term rental owners can do to bring in business (and what potential renters are looking for). Ahead, discover the worst mistakes rental owners are making and how to fix them — according to Jasmine and Leslie.

Your rental home might be beautiful, comfortable and clean, but if your photos don't show it, you're not getting business. According to Jasmine, photos are the No. 1 thing that can make or break a rental.

"This is by far what gets renters booked," Jasmine tells HGTV. "Your listing should [feature photos] that tell a story and answer all the questions renters want answered before they book. Is there a crib? How many [people] does the dining table seat? What is the parking situation? The list goes on and on … [Taking photos] is the first step to anticipating the needs of renters, and it's an important one."

"Your bedding can't be gross!" Jasmine says. And even if it's clean, it needs to look clean.

"White sheets, a fresh duvet, white pillowcases and, for the love of all rentals, a BEDSKIRT if needed," says Jasmine. "If I see metal legs or the box spring, I'm out."

"[Renters] really do read the reviews," says Jasmine. Of course, negative reviews are never good, but a lack of reviews can also deter prospective renters.

"Make sure [reviews] are good," says Jasmine. "Even an occasional bad review here and there that's been responded to and rectified is OK. You should be encouraging your guests to please write a review." If you're a rental owner, try including a friendly reminder in your welcome book. For some rental apps, leaving the renter a review triggers a review reminder for them to leave one as well.

"When you go to somebody's house, the first thing you check is their bathroom," says Leslie. "If your bathroom is nasty or your kitchen is nasty, you’re nasty!"

Ensuring your space is thoroughly cleaned after renters leave is vital for business. And just like with bedding, a rental doesn't just need to be clean; it needs to look and feel clean as well. Use magic erasers to get scuffs and stains off the walls or floors, wash rugs or communal blankets frequently and make sure your space smells good. "Clean and tidy is the best way to get a good review from me," says Jasmine.

"As much as someone wants to stay in a 'home,' they really do want a hotel experience when it comes to cleanliness and ease of use," says Jasmine.

Aesthetics matter, but functionality and longevity should be considered above everything else. Don't splurge on an expensive unlacquered brass faucet in the bathroom because you love the way it looks. "Make sure that you use quality products, but know they will get wear and tear and [might] need to be replaced regularly," explains Jasmine. "And performance fabric for all upholstery is a MUST." Jasmine also suggests clearing your rental of clutter or any personal objects or photos.

"Like I do with my clients, trying to put yourself in someone else's shoes can go a long way with creating a remarkable [rental] experience," says Jasmine.

According to Jasmine, the best way to get a glowing review is to "pay attention to the details. Give [renters] their privacy but make sure their needs are met." If you have a washer in the unit, supply laundry detergent — even just enough to get your guests started. Ensure guests have space to store their toiletries, enough towels, clean dishes, etc. Jasmine's rental must-haves: a simple television and AC/heat setup with labeled remotes, good lighting that's easy to operate and a kitchen stocked with cooking supplies.

Anticipating renters' needs goes hand-in-hand with being readily available to provide information or help from afar. Guests who have to wait a while for a text or message back may leave a bad review.