Getting Started:

1. Registering on HostRooster:
   • If you’re new to HostRooster, start by registering your account.
   • Visit hostrooster.com and click the “Register” button.
   • Fill in your details and create a unique username and password.
2. Logging In:
   • For returning guests, simply click on the “Login” button at the top-right corner of the homepage.
   • Alternatively, you can log in using your Facebook or Google account for added convenience.

Exploring the HostRooster Dashboard:

Now that you’ve logged in, let’s explore your dashboard, designed to enhance your guest experience:

3. Dashboard Overview:
   • Your dashboard offers a quick glimpse of your HostRooster journey.
   • It displays essential information like messages, entries, favorites, account details, and your login status.
4. Dashboard Quick Links:
   • On the left side of the dashboard, you’ll find quick links to key sections such as messages, entries, notifications, orders, downloads, addresses, payment methods, and account details.

Understanding Dashboard Sections:

Let’s dive deeper into what each section means for you as a guest:

5. Messages:
   • This is your hub for communication with hosts and sellers. Keep an eye on incoming messages and stay connected.
6. Entries:
   • Entries encompass all interactions between you and hosts or sellers. Stay organized with incoming and outgoing entries.
7. Notifications:
   • Don’t miss important messages or updates. Customize your notification settings to your preferences.
8. Orders:
   • Track and manage all your reservations, stays, and bookings through the Orders section. Stay organized during your adventures.
9. Downloads:
   • Currently not active, but this feature might come to life in the future for added convenience.
10. Addresses:
    • Keep your billing and shipping addresses up-to-date to ensure smooth transactions and deliveries.
11. Payment Methods:
    • Add and manage your preferred payment methods for quick and secure transactions during your bookings.
12. Account Details:
    • Access your personal information here, including your name, display name, emojis, and password. Remember, using your real name is crucial for security reasons.

Conclusion:

And there you have it—a comprehensive guide tailored for HostRooster guests. We hope this guide helps you make the most of your guest experience, whether you’re booking stays, exploring incredible dining options, or embarking on unforgettable adventures.

HostRooster is all about connecting guests with unique opportunities. So, go ahead, explore, book your dream stays, and indulge in once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Welcome to the HostRooster community!

Happy exploring and creating memories!

Table of Contents:

• Step 1: Accessing Your HostRooster Account
• Step 2: Dashboard Overview
• Step 3: Listings
• Step 4: Entries
• Step 5: Messages
• Step 6: Payouts
• Step 7: Notifications
• Step 8: Orders
• Step 9: Downloads
• Step 10: Addresses
• Step 11: Payment Methods
• Step 12: Logout

Step 1: Accessing Your HostRooster Account

Before we dive into the dashboard, make sure you have registered an account on HostRooster. If not, you can follow our registration process. Once you’re registered and logged in, you can access your account:

• Open your preferred internet browser (Google Chrome, Safari, or any other browser).
• Type “hostrooster.com” into the browser’s navigation bar and press “Enter.”
• Click on the “Login” button at the top-right corner of the screen.
• Enter your credentials (username or email address and password) and click “Sign In.”

You can also use the “Continue with Google” or “Continue with Facebook” buttons if you prefer.

Step 2: Dashboard Overview

After logging in, you’ll be redirected to your HostRooster dashboard. On the top right corner, you’ll find your username represented by a user icon. Clicking on your username opens a drop-down menu with options such as Dashboard, Messages, Entries, Favorites, Listings, Payouts, Account Details, and Logout.

Step 3: Listings

• If you’re a host, click on “Listings” to view all the listings you’ve created on HostRooster. These listings can include places to stay, bars, restaurants, and experiences. You can filter your listings for easy management.

Step 4: Entries

• The “Entries” section contains records of incoming and outgoing entries from other HostRooster users. Entries are related to your listings and may include messages, inquiries, or bookings.

Step 5: Messages

• Access your message history with other users in the “Messages” section. You can communicate with users who have messaged you or whom you’ve messaged.

Step 6: Payouts

• In “Payouts,” you can view your account balance. Initially, it may show zero, but as you receive payments from bookings or services, your balance will update. You can also request payouts using the provided options, such as PayPal or bank transfer.

Step 7: Notifications

• “Notifications” store messages and notifications sent by HostRooster. You can customize which notifications you receive via email to stay informed about bookings and activity on the platform.

Step 8: Orders

• The “Orders” section tracks all orders related to your listings. It’s particularly useful for hosts to keep an eye on bookings and purchases made by users.

Step 9: Downloads

• Currently, you can ignore the “Downloads” section, as it may be a feature introduced in the future.

Step 10: Addresses

• Maintain accurate billing and shipping addresses in the “Addresses” section. Ensure your details are correct and up-to-date to facilitate transactions and ID verification.

Step 11: Payment Methods

• Add or manage your payment methods in this section. This is essential for both hosts and guests to facilitate smooth transactions on the platform.

Step 12: Logout

• To log out of your HostRooster account, click the “Logout” button.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of your HostRooster dashboard and its features. Familiarize yourself with these sections to make the most of your HostRooster experience. If you have any questions or encounter issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to our support team at [email protected] or visit our helpdesk at hostrooster.uservoice.com. Enjoy your journey with HostRooster!

Step 1: Account Creation

Before you can submit your listing, you must have an active account on HostRooster. If you haven’t created one yet, please follow our comprehensive guide on “How to Create an Account with HostRooster.” You can easily access this guide from the support tab on our website. Once you’ve successfully signed in, you’ll be all set to embark on your hosting journey.

Step 2: Choosing Your Listing Type

As a host on HostRooster, you have the privilege of submitting three distinct types of listings:

1. Places to Stay: This category is expansive and covers various types of accommodations, including hotel rooms, private rooms, shared rooms, retreats, guest homes, glamping sites, health retreats, and much more.

2. Bars and Restaurants: We are constantly on the lookout for unique and exceptional bars and restaurants from all corners of the globe. If your establishment offers an outstanding experience to customers, we want to hear from you.

3. Experiences: At HostRooster, we encourage hosts to share their one-of-a-kind experiences. These experiences can range from package weddings to thrilling skiing trips, serene hot air balloon rides, nostalgic roller-skating adventures, and virtually any remarkable activity you can think of. We are particularly interested in original, creative, and exceptional experiences that can captivate our guests.

Step 3: Submission Process

Now that you’re ready to submit your listing, let’s dive into the process:

1. Access the Submission Form:

• Navigate to the HostRooster homepage at hostrooster.com.
• At the top right-hand corner of the page, you’ll find a prominent red button that reads “Host Your Place.” Click on this button to begin your listing submission journey.

2. Choose Your Plan:

• After clicking “Host Your Place,” you will be presented with four distinct plans: Starter, Base, Pro, and Master. The Starter plan is an excellent choice for beginners, as it allows you to list two properties for free.

3. Listing Creation:

• Click “Continue” to initiate the listing creation process.
• HostRooster offers an intuitive and user-friendly system to help you fill in your listing details accurately and comprehensively.

Key Listing Details:

Now, let’s delve deeper into the key details you should focus on when creating your listing:

High-Quality Pictures: High-quality, captivating images are the cornerstone of a successful listing. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words, so include as many compelling images as possible to showcase your place, bar, restaurant, or experience in the best possible light.

Description: Craft a compelling and engaging description of your listing. If you’re unsure where to start, consider using AI-powered tools like GPT-3 to refine your text and make it truly captivating.

Location: It is absolutely vital to enter the correct location of your listing to ensure guests can find it easily and without confusion.

Pricing and Reservation Information: Provide precise pricing details and reservation information so potential guests have a clear understanding of what to expect.

Additional Tips:

• Honesty is the best policy. Only select options that genuinely apply to your offering to avoid any breaches of our terms and conditions. Transparency and accuracy are key.
• Sometimes, less is more. Instead of overselling your listing, consider understating it. This can often lead to more positive feedback from guests.

Step 4: Publish Your Listing

Once you’ve meticulously filled out all the relevant information, it’s time to take the leap and click “Publish Listing.” Your listing will then undergo a thorough screening process by our experienced team. In some cases, we may reach out to you for additional information, such as ID verification or business details, to ensure the authenticity and quality of listings on our platform.

Final Words

Submitting a listing on HostRooster is not just about sharing a space or experience; it’s about being part of a community that values authenticity, quality, and uniqueness. We’re here to support you every step of the way as you embark on your hosting journey.

Should you ever have any questions, require guidance, or need assistance, our helpdesk is at your disposal. You can also reach out to us directly at [email protected]. We are committed to helping you make the most of your hosting experience on HostRooster.

Thank you for joining our vibrant community. We look forward to seeing your unique listings and experiences take center stage on HostRooster!

Step 1: Open Your Preferred Browser

• Begin by launching your internet browser. While we recommend using Google Chrome for optimal performance, you can also use Safari or any other browser that you prefer.

Step 2: Visit HostRooster

• Type “hostrooster.com” into your browser’s navigation bar, located at the top of the screen, and hit “Enter.” The HostRooster website should load within seconds.

Step 3: Access Sign In

• Once the website loads, direct your attention to the top-right corner, where you’ll find the “Sign In” button. It’s represented by a user icon. Click on this button.

Step 4: Signing In

• If you already have a HostRooster account, this is your moment. Simply enter your registered username or email address and your password in the pop-up box. Once done, click “Sign In.”
• Forgot your password? No worries. If you’ve misplaced your password, click the “I lost my password” link on the same pop-up. Enter your registered email address, and follow the prompts to reset your password.
• Want a swift sign-in using your Google or Facebook account? You can do that too. Just click either “Continue with Google” or “Continue with Facebook” on the pop-up. Keep in mind that using this method may limit your control over the username assigned to you.

Step 5: Creating an Account

• If you’re new to HostRooster, click on the “Create Account” link in the pop-up.
• You’ll be presented with two account options: “Guest” and “Host.” Choose the one that aligns with your intentions.
• Fill in the required details: your chosen username (remember, this can’t be changed, so pick wisely), email address, phone number, first name, last name, and password. Confirm your password.
• Complete the “I’m not a robot” verification and indicate your acceptance of HostRooster’s terms of service and privacy policy by checking the box.
• Click “Create Account.”

Step 6: Your New Account

• Congratulations! Within moments, you’ll be redirected to the website. Look at the top-right corner, and you’ll see your username. Click on it to access your dashboard. Here, you can create listings, manage bookings, and more.

Remember to keep your password secure, use a valid email address, and ensure your chosen email is indeed yours. Should you have any questions or face issues during the sign-up process, reach out to our support team at [email protected] or visit our helpdesk at hostrooster.useyourvoice.com. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for exciting updates!

1. Entire Place

Perfect for a Home Away from Home

An entire place on HostRooster is an excellent choice if you’re seeking a home away from home. When you book an entire place, you gain exclusive access to the entire space, ensuring privacy and comfort. Typically, this includes a private bedroom, a bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen, and a separate, dedicated entrance.

Note for Guests: Hosts may occasionally reside on the property, so be sure to check the listing description for details (e.g., “Host occupies first floor of the home”). Hosts often provide additional information about the listing to ensure you have all the details you need for a pleasant stay.

2. Private Rooms

For a Balance of Privacy and Local Connection

Private rooms are an excellent choice if you value a degree of privacy while still enjoying a local connection during your stay. Booking a private room provides you with your own private bedroom for sleeping, ensuring your personal space. However, you may share certain common areas with the host or other guests, fostering opportunities for interaction and local insights.

3. Hotel Rooms

Experience Traditional Hospitality

HostRooster offers hotel rooms that provide a level of service and hospitality reminiscent of traditional hotels. These rooms are available in a variety of settings, including boutique or lifestyle hotels, hostels, bed and breakfasts, and similar properties. Hotel rooms often feature vibrant common areas and rooms with unique, personalized touches, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.

4. Shared Rooms

For the Sociable Traveler

Shared rooms are an ideal choice if you don’t mind sharing your space with fellow travelers. When you book a shared room on HostRooster, you’ll be sleeping in a space shared with others, creating opportunities to meet new people and forge new connections. Shared rooms are popular among flexible travelers seeking budget-friendly stays and the chance to make new friends along the way.

Each type of place to stay on HostRooster offers its unique advantages, allowing you to tailor your accommodation choice to your specific travel preferences. Whether you prioritize privacy, social interaction, or the comfort of a hotel-like experience, HostRooster has the perfect option for you.

Accessibility Features: Your Path to Inclusive Travel

Step-free Guest Entrance: Finding a place with a step-free guest entrance is now a breeze. No more worrying about stairs or steps – just a smooth entry into your chosen accommodation.

Step-free Route to Guest Entrance: We understand that getting to the guest entrance is just as crucial. With this filter, you can ensure a step-free path right from the curb to your temporary home.

Guest Entrance Wider than 32 Inches: For those who require a more spacious entrance, this feature ensures that the door is wider than 32 inches, allowing easy access for mobility aids.

Accessible Parking Spot: We’ve got your parking needs covered too. Filter accommodations with accessible parking spots so you can conveniently park close to your stay.

Step-free Bedroom Access: Rest easy knowing that your bedroom is accessible without any steps or barriers.

Bedroom Entryway Wider than 32 Inches: If you need a wider entryway for your bedroom, this feature guarantees just that – an entryway wider than 32 inches.

Step-free Bathroom Access: Accessible bathrooms are a must for a comfortable stay. Filter accommodations with step-free access to the bathroom.

Bathroom Entryway Wider than 32 Inches: We ensure that bathroom entryways are spacious, making your daily routines hassle-free.

Shower or Bath Chair: Travelers who require additional support in the shower or bath can now find accommodations with shower or bath chairs.

Step-free Shower: For a seamless shower experience without any steps, this filter will guide you to the perfect place.

Toilet Grab Bars: Safety is paramount. Filter accommodations equipped with toilet grab bars for added peace of mind.

Shower Grab Bars: Enjoy a secure shower experience with accommodations that feature shower grab bars.

Ceiling or Mobile Hoist: For travelers with unique mobility needs, this filter helps you discover accommodations equipped with ceiling or mobile hoists.

A Commitment to Inclusivity

At HostRooster, we are committed to fostering an inclusive travel community where everyone can find their ideal stay. Our new accessibility features are designed to ensure that you can search for and book accommodations that cater to your specific needs.

By providing these filters, we aim to empower travelers of all abilities to explore the world with confidence, knowing that their accommodation is tailored to their accessibility requirements.

HostRooster is more than just a platform; it’s a place where you can belong anywhere. We invite you to explore our enhanced accessibility features and embark on unforgettable travel experiences that are truly inclusive. Your journey begins with us – start searching for your perfect accessible stay today.

1. Begin Your Hosting Journey

The first step is to give hosting a try. Familiarize yourself with the platform, understand how it works, and get comfortable with the process. Start by listing your space or offering experiences to see how HostRooster works.

2. Assess Your Market

Before diving in, research other HostRooster listings and businesses in your area that align with your offerings. Identify what they offer and pinpoint areas where you can stand out and provide unique value to potential guests.

Consider the type of travelers who might be interested in your space or services. Is your area a hotspot for business travelers, families on vacation, or tourists seeking local attractions like national parks or historic sites? This information can guide your decisions regarding design, amenities, and the length of stays you want to offer.

Ensure you’re well-versed in local regulations and tax requirements related to short-term rentals in your area, as compliance is crucial. While HostRooster can’t provide legal or tax advice, we can help you find relevant information on hosting regulations.

3. Estimate Your Earning Potential

Once you’ve conducted market research, it’s time to estimate your earning potential. While setting income goals, consider both your expenses and pricing strategy:

List Your Expenses: Calculate your upfront costs, including expenses for decor, Wi-Fi, and essential amenities to prepare your space for bookings. Don’t forget to factor in ongoing or recurring costs such as linens, toiletries, cleaning services, and mortgage payments. Keep a record of maintenance expenses, such as repairs or annual inspections.

Set Your Pricing Strategy: Study the pricing of nearby rentals throughout the year and evaluate how your initial pricing compares. Adjust your rates seasonally, during weekends, and for special events to align with demand. Remember that guests also pay a service fee and any additional fees you include. You can start with competitive pricing and gradually increase it as you accumulate positive reviews.

Consider Smart Pricing: For automated pricing adjustments, consider using HostRooster’s Smart Pricing tool, which factors in over 70 variables, including seasonality and demand. You can also set a minimum nightly rate to ensure your price never falls below a certain threshold.

4. Decide How You’ll Host

HostRooster offers various hosting options, allowing you to choose what suits your availability and preferences best. Determine how much time you can dedicate to hosting and explore tools and services that can assist you in managing your business efficiently.

Initially, Bryan and Catherine handled everything themselves, from laundry to maintenance. However, as their hosting business grew, they opted to outsource some services. Explore tools like scheduled messages, quick replies, and Instant Book to automate aspects of your business. You have control over your hosting schedule using calendar and booking settings, allowing you to set availability, minimum and maximum stay durations, and more.

5. Craft a Unique Guest Experience

Your success as a Host on HostRooster hinges on your ability to create memorable experiences for your guests. Define the type of guests you want to attract, whether it’s pet owners, couples, families, or remote workers, and offer amenities tailored to their needs. Pay attention to the small details that set your listing apart, such as a heartfelt welcome note or locally sourced mementos.

Catherine shares, “We collaborated with a local artist to create sketches of our homes and turned them into postcards for our guests to use or take home.”

6. Market Your Space

Listing your space on HostRooster is free, and you only pay a service fee when a reservation is confirmed. Ensure your listing stands out with captivating photos and an engaging listing title. High-quality photos can make a significant difference in attracting potential guests. You can opt to take professional photos or use a smartphone to capture appealing images.

Dean notes, “We noticed a big difference in our bookings when we invested in professional photography.”

Remember to provide accurate listing details and photos to set clear expectations for your guests.

7. Seek Support from HostRooster

HostRooster is committed to supporting Hosts throughout their journey, ensuring they can host with confidence:

• Connect with Other Hosts: Join the HostRooster Community Center to network with fellow Hosts.
• Ask another host: If you have questions or need guidance, reach out to experienced Superhosts for advice.
• Resource Center: Explore the Resource Center for more hosting tips and information.
• Customer Support: HostRooster’s dedicated customer support team is available around the clock to assist you.

With these steps, you’re well on your way to launching your business on HostRooster and embarking on a rewarding hosting journey. HostRooster provides the platform and support you need to turn your space or experiences into a thriving business opportunity.

1. Entire Place

• Description: Choosing “Entire place” means that guests will have exclusive access to the entire property. They won’t share any spaces with you or other guests. They’ll enjoy full privacy, including a private entrance, and no common areas will be shared.
• Typical Inclusions: An entire place usually includes a bedroom, a bathroom, and a kitchen. Guests can expect a self-contained living space.
• Host Presence: If you’ll be on the property during the guest’s stay, it’s crucial to mention this in your listing description for full transparency (e.g., “Host occupies first floor of the home”).

2. Room

• Description: Selecting “Room” indicates that guests will have their own private bedroom with a door for sleeping. However, some areas, such as the kitchen, living room, or bathroom, could be shared with you or other guests. Additionally, discover what constitutes a room on HostRooster.
• Bathroom Options: Bathrooms can have different arrangements. They can be shared, private, and attached to the room, or dedicated exclusively to the guest. Make sure to specify this in your listing details.
• Additional Details: Guests appreciate clarity, so provide as much information as possible about the shared spaces and the level of privacy they can expect in their rooms.

3. Shared Room

• Description: If you choose “Shared room,” guests will be sleeping in either a bedroom or a common area that may be shared with other guests. It’s helpful to specify how many people they might be sharing the space with.
• Transparency: Guests selecting shared rooms are often looking for budget-friendly options and a chance to meet new people. Transparency about the number of occupants and sleeping arrangements is essential.

Selecting the correct home type is crucial for setting guest expectations and ensuring they have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Remember, providing accurate details in your listing helps guests make informed decisions and enhances their overall experience.

Please keep in mind that guests appreciate honesty, so make sure your description accurately reflects the reality of your space. Clear and transparent communication is key to positive hosting experiences on HostRooster. For more information, see HostRooster’s Off-platform Policy.