Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about your stay at Inspiration House
Booking & Reservations
All bookings are made through Airbnb. Visit our listing on Airbnb to check availability, view pricing, and complete your reservation. You'll need an Airbnb account to book, which provides secure payment processing and guest protection.
We require a minimum stay of 2 nights. This gives you enough time to settle in and experience the unique atmosphere of Inspiration House. Longer stays are welcomed and encouraged!
We follow Airbnb's flexible cancellation policy. Guests can receive a full refund if they cancel up to 7 days before check-in. Cancellations made between 3-7 days before check-in receive a 50% refund. No refunds are provided for cancellations within 3 days of check-in, except in cases of severe weather or documented emergencies.
Inspiration House can accommodate up to 4 guests comfortably. We have 4 beds distributed across multiple bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms. Additional guests beyond the maximum capacity are not permitted.
The nightly rate includes all utilities, WiFi, and standard amenities. Airbnb adds their service fee and applicable taxes at checkout. A cleaning fee is also charged to cover professional cleaning between guests. All fees are clearly displayed before you complete your booking.
Paranormal Activity
Yes! Inspiration House has documented paranormal activity and has been investigated by paranormal experts, including owner Michelle Belanger. Many guests report experiencing phenomena during their stays. However, the spirits are gentle and welcoming – Michelle describes them as "the coziest haunting I've seen."
Guests have reported various experiences including footsteps, doors opening or closing on their own, cool breezes in sealed rooms, feelings of gentle presence, objects moving, and occasional visual apparitions. Some guests capture anomalies in photographs or EVPs (Electronic Voice Phenomena) on audio recordings. Each experience is unique and varies by guest.
Absolutely safe! The spirits at Inspiration House are known to be gentle, curious, and friendly. There have been no reports of negative or harmful encounters. Many guests describe feeling welcomed and protected during their stay. The house maintains a warm, comfortable atmosphere.
Yes! We encourage respectful paranormal investigations. Basic equipment like EMF meters, digital voice recorders, and temperature sensors are available for guest use. Please bring your own advanced equipment if desired. We only ask that you treat the house and its residents (both seen and unseen) with respect.
Paranormal experiences vary greatly and are never guaranteed. Some guests experience multiple phenomena while others may not notice anything unusual. The spirits seem to interact with guests on their own terms. Regardless of paranormal activity, Inspiration House remains a beautiful, historic, and comfortable place to stay.
The house is home to several spirit residents with distinct personalities. Learn more about each of them on our Spirits page, where we share their stories and characteristics as documented by guests and investigators.
Amenities & Features
Inspiration House includes: fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances, WiFi, streaming services (Netflix, Hulu, etc.), washer and dryer, linens and towels, heating and air conditioning, hair dryers, iron and ironing board, basic toiletries, coffee maker and tea kettle, parking for multiple vehicles, and outdoor space. Paranormal investigation equipment is also available upon request.
Yes! The kitchen includes a full-size refrigerator, stove/oven, microwave, dishwasher, coffee maker, toaster, and all necessary cookware, dishes, utensils, and glassware. Basic cooking staples like salt, pepper, olive oil, and coffee are provided. You're welcome to prepare full meals during your stay.
Yes, high-speed WiFi is available throughout the house at no additional charge. The connection is fast enough for video streaming, video calls, and remote work. WiFi credentials are provided in the welcome packet.
The house has 4 beds across multiple bedrooms, including comfortable queen and full-size beds. All bedrooms are furnished with period-appropriate furniture while maintaining modern comfort. Fresh linens, pillows, and blankets are provided for all beds.
Yes, there is free on-site parking for 2-3 vehicles in the driveway. Street parking is also available if needed. The parking area is well-lit for your safety and convenience.
Unfortunately, due to the historic nature of the building (built in 1870), the house is not wheelchair accessible. There are stairs to access the upper floors where the bedrooms are located. The first floor includes common areas but no bedrooms.
We provide basic paranormal investigation equipment including EMF meters, digital voice recorders for EVP sessions, temperature sensors, and flashlights. A guide for using the equipment is provided. You're welcome to bring your own advanced equipment as well.
Policies & Rules
Check-in is between 3:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Check-out is by 11:00 AM. If you need to arrive outside these hours, please contact us in advance to arrange an alternative. Early check-in or late check-out may be available depending on booking schedule.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed at Inspiration House. This policy helps maintain the historic furnishings and ensures comfort for guests with allergies. Service animals are welcome with advance notice.
No, smoking is not permitted inside Inspiration House. This includes cigarettes, cigars, vaping, and other smoking devices. You may smoke outside on the property, and we provide ashtrays for outdoor use. Please dispose of cigarette butts properly.
No parties or large gatherings are permitted. Inspiration House is a residential property in a quiet neighborhood, and we must respect our neighbors. The maximum guest count is 4 people, and quiet hours are observed from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM.
Accidents happen! Please report any damage immediately. Minor wear and tear is expected and covered by the cleaning fee. However, guests are responsible for significant damage to the property or its contents. Airbnb's Host Guarantee provides protection for both hosts and guests in case of damage.
Yes, quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM. During these hours, please keep noise to a minimum out of respect for neighbors. You may continue paranormal investigations during quiet hours, but please do so quietly.
Location & Access
Inspiration House is located in historic Oberlin, Ohio, about 35 miles southwest of Cleveland. The exact address is provided after booking confirmation. Oberlin is a charming college town with shops, restaurants, museums, and cultural attractions within walking distance.
The nearest major airport is Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE), approximately 40 minutes away by car. Rental cars are available at the airport, or you can use ride-share services like Uber or Lyft. Detailed directions will be provided upon booking.
Downtown Oberlin is very walkable! Within a 10-minute walk, you'll find restaurants, cafes, grocery stores, shops, and the Oberlin College campus. The Allen Memorial Art Museum and Apollo Theatre are also nearby. We provide a local guide with recommendations for dining, shopping, and attractions.
We offer self check-in with a secure lockbox. You'll receive detailed instructions and the lockbox code before your arrival. This allows you to check in at your convenience within the check-in window. We're always available by phone or message if you need assistance.
Yes! Oberlin is a safe, friendly college town with low crime rates. The neighborhood where Inspiration House is located is quiet and residential. The property has exterior security cameras in common areas, well-lit parking and entrances, and secure locks on all doors.
General Questions
Inspiration House is owned by Michelle Belanger, a renowned author, paranormal investigator, and host of "Paranormal State" and other paranormal television programs. Michelle acquired the property in 2018 and has carefully preserved its historic character while documenting its paranormal activity.
Inspiration House was built in 1870, making it over 150 years old. The distinctive brick homestead retains much of its original Victorian-era architecture and charm, with modern updates for comfort and safety while preserving historical integrity.
Yes! Since 2018, Inspiration House has been featured in Business Insider, Vogue, House Beautiful, and Netflix's "The World's Most Amazing Vacation Rentals" (Season 2). The house has gained recognition for its unique blend of historic charm and paranormal activity.
Children are welcome, though the house is best suited for older children and teens who can appreciate the historic nature and paranormal aspects. The spirits are gentle, but the experience might be intense for very young children. Parents should use their discretion. The house contains antiques and period furniture that require careful handling.
We're available 24/7 for urgent issues. Contact information is provided in your welcome packet and posted inside the house. For non-urgent questions, you can message us through Airbnb. Emergency services (911) information is also clearly posted throughout the property.
Absolutely! We encourage all guests to leave honest reviews on Airbnb. Your feedback helps future guests know what to expect and helps us continue improving the experience. We especially love hearing about your paranormal experiences!
Yes! Airbnb offers gift cards that can be used toward a stay at Inspiration House or any other Airbnb property. A stay at Inspiration House makes a unique and unforgettable gift for paranormal enthusiasts, history lovers, or anyone seeking an unusual experience.
Still Have Questions?
Can't find the answer you're looking for? We're here to help! Feel free to reach out with any questions about your stay.