Our client, based in Vancouver, Canada, manages several Airbnb properties and needed a comprehensive solution to streamline property management and enhance guest experience.
The main requirements were real-time check-in/check-out status monitoring, automated guest notifications, and coordination with the cleaning agency.
Domotix Labs effortlessly handled the automation task, developing a customized Home Assistant-based solution.
Client Requirements
- Real-time Check-in/Check-out Status: The client needed to monitor the check-in and check-out status of their properties in real-time.
- Automated Welcome Experience: Upon guest check-in, the TV should turn on and play an introduction video about the property.
- Automated Cleaning Notification: After guest check-out, the vacuum cleaner should start automatically, and a notification should be sent to the cleaning agency.
- Early Check-in Notification: Notify the next guest if the property is ready for early check-in once cleaning is completed.
Solution Provided
We developed a customized Home Assistant-based solution to meet the client's needs, incorporating automation and real-time notifications.
System Design
Three buttons were installed in each property to manage different statuses
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Check-In Button: For guests to check in.
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Check-Out Button: For guests to check out.
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Clean Button: For the cleaning agency to mark the property as cleaned.
Workflow Automation
To ensure a smooth transition to Home Assistant, we assisted the client in selecting additional hardware that was compatible and would enhance their setup:
1. Check-In Process:
Guest Interaction
When the guest clicks the Check-In button, the light blinks three times to confirm the action.
Notifications and Actions:
- A message is sent to the property owner confirming guest check-in.
- The TV turns on and plays the property introduction video in a loop.
- If the weather is hot, the AC turns on automatically for guest comfort.
- The property's status is updated to GuestCheckedIn.
2. Check-Out Process
Guest Interaction
When the guest clicks the Check-Out button, the light blinks three times to confirm the action.
Notifications and Actions:
- A message is sent to the property owner confirming guest check-out.
- A notification is sent to the cleaning agency that the property is ready for cleaning.
- The vacuum cleaner starts sweeping the property.
- The property's status is updated to GuestCheckedOut.
3. Cleaning Process
Agency Interaction:
When the cleaning agency finishes cleaning, they click the Clean button.
Notifications and Actions:
- A message is sent to the property owner confirming that the property is cleaned.
- If the property is cleaned before the usual check-in time, an email is sent to the next guest offering an early check-in opportunity.
- The property's status is updated to PropertyClean.
Benefits
Understanding the client’s daily needs and preferences was crucial in designing an effective Home Assistant dashboard.
We drafted an initial design, then refined it based on their feedback to ensure it was intuitive and fully responsive to the family’s lifestyle.
Real-Time Status Tracking
The property owner can monitor the status of each property in real-time.
Enhanced Guest Experience
Automated welcome features such as turning on the TV and AC improve guest comfort.
Streamlined Cleaning Process
Automated notifications to the cleaning agency ensure timely cleaning of the properties.
Increased Customer Satisfaction and Revenue
Offering early check-ins increases customer satisfaction and generates additional fees.
Conclusion:
Our smart automation solution successfully addressed the client's needs, improving operational efficiency and enhancing guest experience. The client now enjoys a seamless property management process with real-time updates and automated workflows.
Client Testimonial