> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.kouchd.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Getting Started as a Host

> How to set up a new stay, invite your guest, and set clear expectations.

Hosting a friend, acquaintance, or family member should feel comfortable, not fraught with unspoken tension. Kouchd provides the structure so you never have to send an awkward text asking for rent or reminding someone to buy paper towels.

## Setting Up Your Stay

1. **Navigate to the Host Onboarding Wizard**:
   When you first sign in with no active stay, tap **Create a Household Stay**.
2. **Select Stay Dates**:
   Choose the initial arrival date and planned end date. If the end date is flexible, select an initial target check-in review date.
3. **Set Financial Expectations**:
   * Set a daily or weekly contribution amount.
   * Choose whether you want to offer an **Early Contribution Discount** (e.g. 10% discount if paid 2 days prior to the due date).
   * Set an optional **Late Fee** with grace days.
4. **Define House Rules & Boundaries**:
   Select from standard household guidelines (e.g., quiet hours after 10 PM, clean dishes immediately, guest visitor policy) or write your own custom rules.

## Inviting Your Guest

Once you complete the setup, Kouchd generates two ways to bring your guest in:

* **Direct Invite Link**: A secure, single-use URL you can text or email to your guest.
* **6-Character Join Code**: A short code your guest can enter directly in their Kouchd dashboard.

Until your guest reviews and accepts the terms, the stay remains in `Pending Acceptance` mode.