By Sarah Gazi, ALP CEO

In the world of hospitality, independent lodging properties hold a unique charm, offering guests a cozy and personalized experience unlike any other accommodation. Yet, in the pursuit of providing exceptional service, independent lodging owners often grapple with the challenge of balancing guest expectations with operational efficiency. One such dilemma revolves around the practice of charging for early check-ins and late check-outs. While some may view this as contrary to the warm, welcoming atmosphere of a B&B or inn, there are compelling reasons why implementing such charges can benefit both guests and proprietors alike.

1. Ensuring Operational Efficiency: Early check-ins and late check-outs can disrupt the meticulously planned schedule of a property. By charging for these services, owners can incentivize guests to adhere to designated arrival and departure times, facilitating smoother turnover between bookings. This not only minimizes potential conflicts but also allows staff to adequately prepare rooms for incoming guests, maintaining the high standards of cleanliness and comfort that define the B&B or inn experience.
   
   
2. Enhancing Guest Experience: While flexibility is valued by guests, it's essential to recognize that accommodating early arrivals or late departures often necessitates additional resources and can impact the experience of other guests. By implementing charges for these requests, properties can better manage guest expectations while still offering the option for those who truly require it. This ensures that guests who adhere to standard check-in and check-out times are not inconvenienced by the actions of others, fostering a more harmonious and enjoyable stay for all.
   
   
3. Fairness and Transparency: Clear communication is key in any hospitality establishment. Charging for early check-ins and late check-outs establishes transparent guidelines regarding the availability and cost of these services. Guests are informed upfront about the potential charges, eliminating any surprises upon arrival or departure. This promotes fairness by ensuring that guests who utilize these services bear the associated costs, rather than passing them on to other guests through higher room rates or compromising the profitability of the business.
   
   
4. Revenue Generation: Independent lodging properties operate within a competitive market, and maximizing revenue streams is essential for long-term sustainability. Charging for early check-ins and late check-outs presents an opportunity to generate additional income without significantly altering the core offerings of the establishment. This revenue can be reinvested into improving facilities, enhancing guest amenities, or even offering discounts and promotions to attract new clientele, ultimately contributing to the growth and success of the business. Even if you charge just $25, that's $25 that you wouldn't have otherwise. 

While the idea of charging for early check-ins and late check-outs may initially seem at odds with the personalized and accommodating nature of independent properties, it's important to recognize the practical benefits that such a policy can offer. By promoting operational efficiency, enhancing the guest experience, ensuring fairness and transparency, and generating additional revenue, you can strike a balance between hospitality and profitability. Ultimately, implementing reasonable charges for these services can contribute to the long-term success and sustainability of your property, while still delighting guests.