Why Guest Reviews Matter
By now, most vacation rental homeowners understand just how powerful guest reviews can be. In our office, we often repeat the mantra: “pictures and guest reviews.” Why? Because they're essential to building trust.
In today’s online booking world, trust is everything. High-quality photos show off your home, but it’s the authentic feedback from past guests that seals the deal. When vacationers can read about the real experiences from previous guests, they’re far more likely to feel confident booking your property sight unseen.
Guest reviews don’t just build trust—they also improve your Listing Quality Audit score. A steady stream of new reviews each year boosts your rating, which can lead to better placement in vacationers’ search results and, ultimately, more inquiries.
If your listing is still light on reviews (or missing them entirely), now’s the time to change that.
How to Ask for Guest Reviews
Even the most enthusiastic guests might not think to write a review unless you give them a nudge. Here are a few easy ways to follow up:
- Use our built-in Request Form.
Send guests an automated email that links directly to the review form. All they have to do is click a button and start typing—it’s that easy.
- Send a direct email or text with the review link.
Prefer to write your own follow-up message? Include your URL in the review form (copy and paste, replacing the Xs with your property ID number): https://www.weneedavacation.com/MyVacations/GuestReview.aspx?PID=XXXXX
- Leverage reviews from other platforms.
If a guest has left a review elsewhere, you can add it to your listing as “Homeowner Entered.” Even better, email the guest using our feature that asks for permission to post their review under their name. With one click (“I agree”), it’s live on your listing.
Timing Is Everything
Reviews must be submitted within 90 days of the guest’s departure, so don’t wait too long to ask for a review and while your guests’ vacation memories are still fresh. Some owners request guest reviews while communicating the return of their guest's security deposit. Your guests might be more amenable to writing a positive review knowing that their deposit is already on its way to them.
For a comprehensive look at our guest review policy, guidelines, and features, see the Guest Reviews Help Page.
See our other advice regarding guest reviews: