Setting up self check-in for guests
Deliver keyless check-in instructions automatically so guests can arrive on their own schedule without you being there.
Self check-in is one of the biggest quality-of-life improvements for both short-term rental hosts and guests. Guests appreciate the flexibility to arrive at any hour without needing to coordinate with you. You appreciate not being tied to someone else's travel schedule. Rezi's self check-in automation handles the entire flow: timing the delivery of access instructions, personalizing the message, and following up after arrival.
Self check-in in Rezi works by delivering access instructions (entry code, lockbox location, building entrance procedure, wifi password, parking info) to the guest at a configured time before their check-in. The instructions are pulled from your building's check-in template, personalized with the guest's name and reservation details, and sent via SMS at the scheduled time.
Setting up check-in templates
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Go to the building settings for your short-term rental
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Navigate to Guest Experience > Check-in template
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Write your check-in instructions, include door code, parking, wifi, building access, and any first-night tips
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Use template variables: {{guest_first_name}}, {{checkin_time}}, {{checkout_time}}, {{door_code}}
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Set the delivery timing: 24 hours before check-in is standard; 2 hours is an option for high-security codes
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Save the template
Keep your check-in instructions clear and sequential. Guests are often navigating an unfamiliar area with luggage, possibly at night or with tired children. Front-load the critical information (the door code and main entrance location) before secondary details (wifi password, trash day, etc.). If your property has multiple access points (building entrance, elevator, front door), give the complete sequence.
Dynamic door codes
If you use a smart lock system integrated with Rezi (see Integrations > Smart Locks), Rezi can automatically generate a unique access code for each reservation and include it in the check-in message. The code is valid only for the duration of the stay and expires automatically at checkout. This eliminates the security risk of a guest sharing a permanent code, and you never need to manually manage codes between reservations.
If you are using a lockbox with a fixed code rather than a smart lock, be sure to rotate the code between guests. Rezi does not automatically rotate lockbox codes, you need to update the door_code variable in your template or in the specific reservation before the check-in message goes out.
Post-arrival check-in
Rezi's check-in automation includes an optional post-arrival message sent 2-4 hours after the scheduled check-in time. This message asks if the guest arrived safely and if they need anything. It is a simple, brief touchpoint that catches any access issues early, makes the guest feel welcomed, and builds trust. Most guests respond positively to this message, and it frequently surfaces small issues (e.g., the smart TV remote is missing) before they become bad reviews.
Checkout reminder
The day before or morning of checkout, Rezi automatically sends the guest their checkout instructions: checkout time, how to return keys or set the lock, whether to strip linens, trash instructions, and a request to let you know if they need a late checkout. Automating checkout reminders significantly reduces the number of guests who accidentally stay past checkout and delays your cleaning crew.
What if a guest checks in early before the check-in message has been sent?
Can I send check-in instructions in a language other than English?
Can I change the timing for different properties?
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