Make your guests happier and run a more efficient vacation rental:

1. Use a wall-mounted soap dispenser to provide soap for guests.

They'll appreciate the amenity and you'll save money because there will be less waste than using bar soap.

2. Provide ample amounts of toilet paper and tissues.

If you provide lots of tissue, guests will use less toilet paper. If you don't supply enough toilet paper, they may resort to using other items in your rental, like towels.

3. Provide salt and pepper, basic spices, coffee filters, plastic bags and plastic wrap, trash bags, foil and other paper towels. Snacks like microwave popcorn are a nice extra.

Guests get frustrated when they run to the store for something like plastic bags, get back to the rental, and then realize they also should have picked up coffee filters. If you want repeat business, provide the little things. Guests DO remember and appreciate these things. If you're generous, your guests will may even return the favor, by leaving some of the items they purchase.

4. Put art on the walls.

It seems simple, but many owners forget this. Two pieces of art per room is a good rule of thumb.

5. Don't put candles in your rental.

During 2002, candles in U.S. homes caused an estimated 18,000 reported structure fires, 130 civilian deaths, 1,350 civilian injuries, and $333 million in estimated direct property damage. Even if a candle is in a container, it may not be entirely safe. They may add ambiance to your rental, but we suggest you don't provide them.

6. Offer discounts.

The GVRL Total Reservations System allows you to offer discounts. Use it to reward returning guests, show your appreciation to military service people or to give senior citizens a brake. If you're not using the Total Reservations System to take reservations and payments, start using it today.

6. Use nightlights.

Guests who wander around your rental in the dark may end up getting hurt. A small nightlight in the hallway or bathroom could help you avoid this problem.

7. Never store anything near your kitchen stovetop.

If you store potholders, utensils or other items near the range, they could catch on fire. Don't do it.