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Category: Guest Communication
By: Kevin O'Brien
Reply by David Okafor:
Great question — tone matters a lot in house rules. Here's how I reframe negatives as positives: **Instead of:** "NO PARTIES. NO EVENTS. NO GATHERINGS OF MORE THAN 6 PEOPLE." **Write:** "Our space is perfect for small groups of up to 6 guests. For larger gatherings, we'd be happy to recommend local event venues!" **Instead of:** "NO SMOKING inside the property." **Write:** "We maintain a smoke-free interior for all guests' comfort. A designated outdoor smoking area is available on the patio." **Instead of:** "Quiet hours after 10 PM. NO LOUD MUSIC." **Write:** "Our neighborhood is peaceful and residential. We observe quiet hours after 10 PM so all guests (and neighbors!) can enjoy a good night's rest." **Instead of:** "NO PETS ALLOWED." **Write:** "We're unable to accommodate pets at this time due to allergy considerations for future guests." The rules are the same. The tone is completely different. Good guests read friendly rules and feel welcomed. Problem guests are still clearly informed of the boundaries. I also add a positive opening line: "Welcome! A few guidelines to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable:" — this frames rules as being FOR the guest, not AGAINST them.
Reply by Ingrid Svensson:
I split my rules into two sections: **"House Guide" (in the listing description):** The positive version — what the space offers, what to expect, capacity, neighborhood character. **"House Rules" (in the official Airbnb rules section):** The firm, clear version — no parties, no smoking, quiet hours. This is what Airbnb references if there's a dispute. Good guests read the Guide and feel welcomed. If there's ever a problem, the Rules section backs you up legally. You need both.