Authentic touches
A tīfaifai quilt, a handcrafted piece, woven basketry or a photograph by a local artist: a few well-chosen items give the property its character. Choose pieces whose origins you know.
Cover photo: © Ben Vyery.
In Tahiti and Moorea, create a welcoming, easy-to-use space that is ready for guests. Attractive decor encourages bookings; thoughtful property care makes the stay.
01 / Create a sense of place
We recommend a bright, welcoming and coordinated interior, with a few carefully chosen local pieces. Give rooms space to breathe and make the most of the view, terrace and natural light.
A tīfaifai quilt, a handcrafted piece, woven basketry or a photograph by a local artist: a few well-chosen items give the property its character. Choose pieces whose origins you know.
Clear worktops and tables. Free up cupboard space and provide somewhere for luggage. Store personal belongings, fragile objects and anything not intended for guest use separately.
Choose washable fabrics, replaceable covers and sturdy furniture suited to its setting. Avoid excessive ornaments and materials that do not cope well with humidity or frequent cleaning.
Our decorating tip: start with a light colour palette, wood, warm lighting and a few colourful accents. A well-placed Polynesian touch is enough; there is no need to fill every space with patterns or souvenirs.
02 / Think about the stay
Equip the property for its actual capacity and the length of stays you expect. Every advertised amenity must be available, clean and in working order.
Provide seating and dining places for every guest, pleasant lighting and stable furniture. Keep walkways clear, including when guests have luggage.
Provide enough matching tableware, useful utensils and easy-to-use appliances. For families and longer stays, make sure guests can prepare proper meals; consider whether an oven and dishwasher would be worthwhile.
Provide comfortable, protected bedding, blackout curtains, accessible lamps and available storage. Check ventilation and, where advertised, air conditioning.
Check that seals are clean and watertight, drains run freely, and hot water and water pressure work properly. Provide towel rails, storage, a hairdryer, a bin and a laundry basket.
Use outdoor furniture suited to the conditions, provide shade and light access routes. Check fixings, slippery surfaces and the condition of exposed equipment.
Test the Wi-Fi and provide a washing machine, drying rack, cleaning equipment and ironing facilities. Add short instructions, storage for cleaning products and a first-aid kit.
03 / Prepare for changeovers
Linen checklist
Linen should be white, except for beach towels, which may be coloured, plain or striped.
Storage: provide two large airtight boxes that fit inside the cupboards to store the second set of linen.
04 / KEEP THE PROPERTY IN GOOD CONDITION
A property can be simple, but it must be well maintained throughout: paintwork, seals, taps, bedding, furniture, equipment and outdoor spaces. Address leaks, persistent odours and faulty appliances before guests arrive.
Schedule filter cleaning, air-conditioning servicing, descaling and drain checks in line with manuals and professional advice. Test small appliances and remote controls too.
Keep appliance model numbers, manuals and warranties. Budget for wear and replacement; do not wait for repeated incidents before repairing or replacing unreliable equipment.
Before a repair visit, send the professional a description of the issue, photographs, model details and any error codes. Confirm access and group non-urgent work together, without postponing a fault that affects a guest's stay.
Cleaning does not replace technical maintenance. Changeover visits can identify problems, but are not a substitute for servicing, repairs, building work or specialist treatment.
05 / Plan ahead for pests
Provide bins with lids and airtight food containers. Repair leaks, remove standing water around the property and monitor storage areas. Maintain insect screens where fitted.
Ask a professional to assess the property and the risks of cockroaches, ants, rodents or termites. Plan the necessary treatments and appropriate follow-up rather than waiting for a guest complaint.
Report any signs of pests promptly. Schedule treatments with the agency, without guests present where necessary, and follow the professional's instructions on re-entry and protecting linen and food.
06 / Build your support network
Identify your regular providers before accepting your first bookings: air conditioning, plumbing, electricity, pest control and, depending on the property, gardening, pool or spa care. Share their contact details with the agency and arrange a backup if they are unavailable.
| When? | What to arrange |
|---|---|
| Before the first rental | Repairs, deep cleaning, equipment testing, access checks and an initial review with service providers. |
| Between stays | Visual checks, reporting issues, checking essentials and replacing consumables according to the agreed arrangements. |
| On an agreed schedule | Technical maintenance, gardening, pool care and pest monitoring. Agree the frequency with each professional based on the equipment, use and manufacturer instructions. |
| For every visit | Confirm the appointment, access arrangements and planned work with the agency. Keep the report, invoice and next service date. |
Allow guest-free periods for work and treatments. Agree maintenance services and who pays for them with your providers; the agency's coordination role depends on your agreement.
Iaorana Agency helps you identify furnishing priorities and organise the property before it is marketed.