vacation rental guest packing their suitcase

What Makes a Good Maine Vacation Rental Guest?

As a homeowner in the vacation rental market, one of your biggest concerns is probably who’s staying in your home. After all, this isn’t just any property—it’s your family retreat, your cherished piece of Midcoast Maine. So, naturally, you want guests who will treat it with the same care and respect you do.

At Cottage Connection, we’ve always believed that quality matters more than quantity. That means we focus on attracting the right kind of guest—the kind who will appreciate everything your home has to offer and leave it in the same condition it was when they arrived. Here’s how we do it:

We Screen Guests, So You Don’t Have To

It starts with our guest screening process. When someone books with us, we don’t just send an automated confirmation and hope for the best. Instead, we talk to every guest directly—sometimes more than once—making sure they’re a good fit for your home. We ask questions like:

  • What brings you to Midcoast Maine?
  • What kind of experience are you looking for during your stay?
  • Do you have any special requests or needs for your vacation?

We want to know that our guests are not only respectful of your space but also have realistic expectations and a genuine interest in the area. This way, they’re more likely to enjoy themselves fully—and take good care of your home while they’re here.

Local, Not Touristy

Our guests are people who want to experience Maine like a local. Sure, they want to visit the popular spots—who doesn’t? But they also want to immerse themselves in the quieter, more authentic parts of our beautiful state. Whether it’s exploring the quiet coves of the Midcoast or enjoying a lobster roll at a family-run shack, these guests aren’t looking for a “tourist trap” vacation. They’re after an authentic experience.

And because we know what it’s like to live here, we’re able to pass that love of the area on to our guests. We make sure they understand the local culture, best-kept secrets, and places you might only find out about if you’re a true Mainer. That creates a deeper connection between the guests and the place—and an even greater appreciation for your home.

Respectful, Responsible, and Reliable

One of the most important things we look for in a guest is responsibility. Our guests are accountable for their actions—whether it’s adhering to house rules, being considerate of neighbors, or following through with any special requests. We set clear expectations upfront, and our guests are typically those who respect the guidelines.

We also make sure that guests understand the importance of taking care of the home during their stay. From basic upkeep like not leaving the door open or the heat blasting when they’re out, to treating furniture and fixtures with care, we ensure that guests know how to respect the property. After all, this is your home, and we want it to be cared for as if it were their own.

Building Trust with Our Guests

At the end of the day, the best guests are the ones who are looking for more than just a place to stay—they’re looking for a place to belong. And when they feel welcome and respected, they’ll return the favor by treating your home with the care it deserves.

When you work with Cottage Connection, we’re not just renting out your home—we’re building relationships with guests who will love your home as much as you do.

If you’re looking for a vacation rental manager who truly understands the importance of screening, respecting, and finding the right guests for your home, we’d love to chat. After all, it’s not just about getting any guests—it’s about getting the right guests.

We’re Cottage Connection. Real people. Right here. Ready when you are.