Managing multiple rental properties isn’t easy, especially when it comes to coordinating check-ins. For this IFTTTer, a short-term rental host managing listings across an entire city, juggling guest arrivals quickly became a logistical nightmare. They found a way to streamline the entire process and dramatically improve the guest experience using IFTTT.

IFTTT integrations with SwitchBot, email, and Google Sheets created an automated system that remotely manages property access through simple trigger commands. This setup allows guests to check in independently at any time and eliminates the need for the host to be physically present which saves them time each day.

IFTTT connects to over 1000 apps. From productivity tools and calendars to social media and smart devices, IFTTT makes it easy to build Applets. Applets are custom automations that run on their own based on the trigger and action settings. For this user, IFTTT is more than a convenience, it's a setup that transforms the way they manage their properties, enabling seamless check-ins, improving guest satisfaction, and scaling their rental business effortlessly.

The problem

On any given day, this IFTTTer was handling between three and twenty guest check-ins. These check-ins weren’t clustered in one area, but they were spread across different neighborhoods, often scheduled within a tight six-hour window.

Without automation, that meant navigating traffic, racing across town, and trying to manage one check-in per hour, often with overlapping guest arrivals. This wasn’t sustainable at all with the constant coordination leading to lost time, high stress, and the occasional missed check-in, which risked disappointing guests.

The solution

To take back control of their time, they built a system that allows guests to check in completely independently. Managing Airbnb check-ins had been a constant challenge due to the need for in-person visits across multiple properties and neighborhoods. Coordinating guest arrivals manually was time-consuming and often stressful. But with this Applet, they automated the check-in process by connecting SwitchBot and email.

Every time an email command is sent, it triggers SwitchBot to press the door release button to unlock the property remotely.

This device physically interacts with the door mechanism to unlock it remotely, granting guests access without any direct involvement from the host.

Another one of our popular SwitchBot Applets integrates with the Button widget. If you prefer a simple tap over sending an email command, this Applet is perfect for you.

Additionally, they needed a simple way to manage access and trigger actions remotely while keeping a reliable log of every event. This Applet provides that solution, helping keep everything organized and easily accessible.

Each time they send a tagged email, it not only triggers the SwitchBot Bot to press a switch, but also logs the event in a Google Sheet.

The outcome

With these automations, this IFTTTer was able to eliminate the need for in-person check-ins, save hours of travel time, and provide guests with a more flexible, seamless experience. By remotely managing access and logging every interaction, making this process into a smooth and reliable system.

For any host or property manager looking to scale operations and improve guest satisfaction, it’s a great example of how the right automation can completely transform your workflow.

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Keep exploring

These automations are just a few of the ways this IFTTTer streamlines property management and eliminates the stress of manual check-ins and they’re only scratching the surface of what’s possible with IFTTT. Whether you're managing guest access, automating smart devices, or keeping records in sync, there’s an Applet out there to help you save time and create a smoother experience for both you and your guests.