7 Things Airbnb Guests Notice That Could Cost You a 5-Star Review

Airbnb guests may not mention everything they notice—but they definitely notice everything. As a host or co-host, the smallest details can make the biggest difference between a glowing 5-star review and a so-so 3. Today’s travelers are savvy, with high expectations shaped by hotel stays, influencers, and luxury travel blogs.

That means offering a clean, safe space is just the baseline. If you want raving reviews and repeat bookings, you need to wow your guests from check-in to checkout.

At Upventures, we help Airbnb hosts across the Oklahoma City metro area level up their short-term rentals with thoughtful service and expert management. Here are the 7 most common things guests notice—and how to avoid letting them cost you that 5-star review.

1. Cleanliness—Beyond the Basics

A clean space is expected, not appreciated. If guests walk into a rental and spot dust on a ceiling fan, hair in the shower, or crumbs in the couch cushions, they’re instantly on alert. And once they notice one thing, they'll start checking everything. That’s how one small oversight snowballs into a bad review.

At Upventures, we implement hotel-style checklists and quality control inspections after every turnover. We even sanitize light switches and remote controls—those little things most hosts forget. Pro tip: if you can smell mustiness or see streaks on mirrors, your guest definitely can too.

2. Communication and Response Time

Excellent communication is one of the most mentioned categories in 5-star reviews. Guests want reassurance that if something goes wrong—say, they lock themselves out or the WiFi cuts out—you’ll be available. Even before arrival, guests may message with questions about check-in times, parking, or local recommendations. Slow or vague replies give off a poor first impression.

With Upventures, hosts don’t have to worry. We offer fast, professional guest communication 7 days a week. We respond quickly, kindly, and clearly, because we know a friendly message can make the difference between an average and exceptional stay.

3. Photos vs. Reality

Photos are your Airbnb’s first impression, and guests expect the listing to look exactly like the pictures. If your photos are outdated, overly filtered, or taken with a wide-angle lens that makes a small room look huge, your guests may feel misled. And when expectations don’t meet reality, it shows up in reviews.

Invest in updated, professional photography that accurately reflects your space. Highlight what makes your home special—natural light, a cozy breakfast nook, or even a fenced backyard for pets. Authenticity builds trust, and trust builds great reviews.

4. Uncomfortable Beds or Furniture

You can clean to perfection and communicate like a pro, but if guests don’t sleep well, they’ll remember. Thin mattresses, sagging couches, or scratchy sheets make your place feel cheap—no matter how stylish it looks. Comfort is not negotiable.

We recommend investing in high-quality bedding and supportive mattresses. Consider mattress toppers or blackout curtains to take your sleep game up a notch. At Upventures, we even help hosts test and upgrade sleep setups to enhance guest comfort and boost ratings.

5. Broken or Missing Essentials

Picture this: a guest is ready to cook breakfast, but there’s no spatula. Or they want a glass of wine, but there are only two mismatched mugs. These oversights may seem minor, but to guests, they signal neglect. Essentials like toilet paper, towels, hand soap, and basic kitchenware should always be fully stocked and functional.

At Upventures, our co-hosting services include detailed inventory management and restocking between stays. We make sure your guests have everything they need—and then some—so no one has to run to Walmart on vacation.

6. Temperature Control

Comfort isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about environment. If your rental is too cold in winter or too hot in summer, guests won’t enjoy their stay. Thermostats locked at uncomfortable temperatures, noisy window units, or non-functioning ceiling fans can all lead to unhappy reviews.

In Oklahoma, weather can shift fast. We help our clients prepare their listings with efficient heating and cooling, remote climate control when possible, and seasonal touches like extra blankets or box fans. When guests feel at ease, they stay happy—and generous in their reviews.

7. The Checkout Experience

Nobody wants a mini chore list before heading to the airport. If guests feel like they’re being asked to do your cleaner’s job—stripping beds, starting laundry, taking out trash—they’re leaving with a sour taste. Keep checkout instructions simple and respectful.

That doesn’t mean skipping guidelines altogether. Just be clear, reasonable, and kind in your tone. At Upventures, we craft checkout instructions that reflect your standards without overwhelming your guests. This final impression can either seal a 5-star stay or kill it.

Bonus Tip: Personalized Touches Make a Difference

While not required, small gestures go a long way. A welcome note, snacks, or even a list of your favorite local spots can elevate the guest experience from good to unforgettable. When guests feel thought of, they’re more likely to rave about their stay.

Delivering a 5-star Airbnb experience doesn’t require luxury upgrades—it requires attention to detail, empathy, and consistency. Whether you manage one property or several, putting the guest experience first will always pay off. And if you’d rather not manage it all alone, Upventures is here to help.

We serve Airbnb hosts throughout the Oklahoma City metro area with precision, care, and heart. From smart pricing and guest communication to deep cleaning and calendar management, here at Upventures, we handle the nitty gritty—so you can focus on growing your rental income without the stress.

Want to make sure your Airbnb is 5-star ready every time? Let’s co-host success together.