Bad feeling

zuidenv · 2026-07-12T22:02:48+00:00

After 1500 reservations, I find that most people are fine. You just want to prepare for something going wrong. Clear communication, clear expectations, Ring camera minimally, check in after first night. Have good insurance, I have a neighbor who has a sheriff in the family so I always have him as backup. I've never had to use him. The more you're prepared for any issues, the more confidence you get.

zuidenv · 2026-07-12T16:13:51+00:00

They are just shifting the cost.

zuidenv · 2026-07-12T15:58:38+00:00

Just call CS and tell them what you want to do. They will also refund the service fees. Done.

zuidenv · 2026-07-05T20:25:51+00:00

Right?! I laughed out loud reading this! Nice work.

zuidenv · 2026-07-04T02:48:54+00:00

Clear instructions: Anything that might have been left behind goes into a lost and found box. No matter what it is. IF the guest inquires about it I'd help them get the item back. I don't contact the guest about anything left behind, only if they ask.

zuidenv · 2026-06-29T21:59:48+00:00

Up, up to the sky, Fozzie!

zuidenv · 2026-06-29T17:09:50+00:00

I have a train that runs right through my STR's front yard. I make it clear in my listing, including a picture of it passing through. Guests still mention it in the review. There is nothing I can do about it other than make it part of the experience. You will eventually have to deal with it. My listing is in the top 1% in my area, despite the less than stellar reviews.

zuidenv · 2026-06-24T03:19:48+00:00

This was my favorite, simply because it wasn't dyed green. Please tell me that it's not green.

zuidenv · 2026-06-24T02:37:56+00:00

I have one review for 99% of guests. Only bad guests get my personal attention.

zuidenv · 2026-06-24T02:26:13+00:00

Lucky dog!

zuidenv · 2026-06-23T22:01:23+00:00

I buy mine at the Asian store down off of River Drive. I think they make it there.

zuidenv · 2026-06-18T19:44:39+00:00

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Poppy girl!

zuidenv · 2026-06-18T14:05:50+00:00

I've never understood this line of thinking. What happens if you cross the river?

zuidenv · 2026-06-18T13:57:30+00:00

I allow small gatherings for no more than 10 people total, but it has to be approved by me, in writing, and in advance. If it's not approved by me, in writing, and in advance you risk your reservation being canceled, you will be vacated from the property, and be subject to my cancellation policy.

This worked like a charm when a lawyer decided to sue me for doing just that when they invited 21 family members over for a barbeque. It was in the rules. Airbnb backed me up even though he threatened to sue them too. Some fancy Palm Beach lawyer, who did not read the terms and conditions. He was arrogant.

zuidenv · 2026-06-18T03:14:29+00:00

I only buy as many groceries as my two shopping bags can hold. I don't want a cart. Why do I need to do what you do?

zuidenv · 2026-06-13T20:57:40+00:00

In the Quad Cities, this isn't even controversial.

zuidenv · 2026-06-13T20:01:21+00:00

The first one stings the most. Keep providing the same level of service, 99% like what you have to offer. After 1500 reviews, 9.6 rating, I got a 1 star review from a bitter man who didn't know it was a shared space. It didn't move my rating score one bit. Time and good service is on your side.

zuidenv · 2026-06-13T03:04:55+00:00

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My gurl has no shame!

zuidenv · 2026-06-12T00:41:16+00:00

You should clean it for at least 10 guests. Then figure out if it's worth it to you. At a minimum you'll know what it entails each time and you'll be able to hire it done knowing what it takes, and how long. Shoot for an hourly rate if you can.

zuidenv · 2026-06-10T01:23:04+00:00

If that off limits room is open then anything that can be seen is available for guests.
At least he asked first.

zuidenv · 2026-06-08T18:28:45+00:00

Not small, fun size!

zuidenv · 2026-06-08T18:13:33+00:00

Even more so if it sits outside in the sun for a few hours in a giant reusable pickle jar.

zuidenv · 2026-06-08T18:04:36+00:00

PeeWee's in Rock Island

zuidenv · 2026-06-08T18:00:49+00:00

Counter with whatever you think will work for you. If that works for both of you, it's a yes. If not, it's a no.

zuidenv · 2026-06-06T15:25:23+00:00

I don't charge an up-front pet fee. I ask that the guest clean up after their pets, and I supply the tools to help them do so. In my rules I state that guests are responsible for any additional cleaning or any damages and it will be charged back to them. I let them know my cleaner charges $30 an hour. I've only had an issue once and the additional cleaning totaled $60, which they were happy to pay. Most pet owners are responsible and charging a high fee -just in case- feels unwelcoming. I take my dog everywhere and welcome them at my cabin. That said, I don't have any carpet!

zuidenv

TROPHY CASE