What should I do when a guest asks for early check-in?

Check whether anyone's checking out that morning, ask your cleaner if they can be done in time, and answer within the hour either way. Early check-in is one of the most common requests you'll get, and the annoyance for the guest usually isn't the "no," it's waiting all day to hear it.

If the turnover's clear and you can say yes:

"Great news! I can offer early check-in at [time]. The property will be all set for you. I'll send access details closer to your arrival."

If there's a same-day checkout and you can't:

"I'd love to offer early check-in, but we have a checkout that morning and need time for cleaning. Your check-in is at 3 PM and I'll have everything ready for you. In the meantime, I'd recommend [nearby cafe/attraction] — it's a great spot to relax before settling in!"

The middle ground worth offering is bag drop: they leave luggage and go explore while the cleaner finishes. It solves the real problem, which is usually schlepping suitcases around a strange city, not sitting in the flat. If early arrivals are a constant, either say so in your listing (standard check-in 3 PM, earlier subject to availability) or put a price on a guaranteed early slot to cover paying the cleaner to come in sooner.

This is also the kind of request a concierge can just handle. It can read your calendar, see whether the morning's clear, and give the right answer instantly instead of the guest waiting on you.