If you have never stayed in one of our homes, here is how it actually works from booking to leaving, and the questions guests ask most. If yours is not here, message Kelly. She answers.
How do I book?
Through the Instant Booking page on this site. Pick your dates and guests, choose the home, pay by card, and you get an email confirmation straight away. There is no platform service fee when you book direct.
When do I get the address and check‑in details?
Your confirmation includes the essentials. Full check‑in instructions, including the door code and any parking or gate details, are sent a few days before arrival. Check‑in and check‑out times vary a little by home and are on each property page; if you need something different, ask early and we will do what we can.
Is check‑in in person?
No. Every home has self check‑in with a keypad or lockbox, so a late flight is not a problem.
What is provided?
Everything you need to sleep, wash and cook: bed linens, towels, toiletries, a fully equipped kitchen, coffee and tea, and pantry basics. Washer and dryer in most homes. Fast Wi‑Fi in all of them. Specific extras vary; see the individual property page for the hot tub, fire pit, kayaks, e‑bikes, game room or free parking.
Is parking available?
Free parking at all of our Houston and Austin homes. The Poconos, Lake Freeman and Crystal Beach homes all have driveways with room for cars and, in Indiana and on the coast, trailers and boats.
Can I bring my dog?
It depends on the home. Ask before you book and you will get a straight yes or no rather than a rule buried in a policy page.
Can I arrive early or leave late?
Often, if the home is empty either side of your stay. It cannot be guaranteed because someone has to check the home between guests, but ask and Kelly will tell you what is possible.
Is there a cleaning fee?
Yes, stated up front in the price breakdown before you pay. It covers the full clean and the check between stays. We ask that you leave the home tidy, run the dishwasher and take the rubbish out; you do not need to strip beds or scrub anything.
What if something is not right when I arrive?
Tell Kelly, straight away, with a photo if it helps. It will be dealt with. Every home is walked through before you arrive, but things occasionally slip, and the point is how quickly they are fixed.
Are the homes safe?
Every home has smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, a fire extinguisher and a first‑aid kit. Security details for each property are in your check‑in instructions.
Do you host these homes yourself?
Yes. Kelly Kohler owns Hope’s Hideaway and hosts every home on this site directly. If you are a property owner reading this, she also offers co‑hosting and management.
Ready? Check availability or browse our homes.