Sparkling Stays | Property Management & Cleaning Tips


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  • What Does Airbnb Property Management Include?

    “Full management” can mean different things to different companies. If you’re comparing Airbnb property management in Perth, you need to know exactly what it should include—some firms only list your property and take a cut; others handle everything from [listing setup to reporting](https://www.airbnb.com.au/help/article/1376) and maintenance. Here’s a straightforward breakdown of what solid Airbnb property management usually includes, and what to clarify before you sign.

    What Airbnb Property Management Can Include: Listing Setup and Optimisation

    A good manager will create or fully optimise your listing: title, description, photos (or coordination with a photographer), house rules, amenities, and calendar settings. They should know what converts in your suburb and property type. This is typically a one-off setup, with ongoing tweaks as needed.

    Pricing and Revenue Management

    Included management usually means they set and adjust your nightly rate. That can be rule-based (e.g. weekends, events) or dynamic (demand, competition, seasonality). You want clarity on: who sets the price, how often it changes, and whether you have any input or veto on minimum rates or blackout dates.

    Guest Communication

    Guests expect quick replies. [Airbnb’s hosting standards](https://www.airbnb.com.au/help/article/138) expect responsive communication. Full management normally includes 24/7 or same-day messaging: enquiries, bookings, check-in instructions, and during-stay questions. Some managers use templates and automation but keep a human in the loop for exceptions. Ask who responds, in what time frame, and in what language.

    Check-In and Check-Out

    This can mean key handover (in person or lockbox), sending codes or instructions, and coordinating access for cleaners and maintenance. Clarify whether they handle after-hours check-ins or lockouts and any extra cost.

    Cleaning and Turnarounds

    Many “full” [Airbnb property management](https://sparklingstays.com.au/property-management) packages include cleaning between guests: full changeover, linen, restocking basics (e.g. toilet paper, soap). Some include mid-stay cleans for longer bookings. If you only need turnover cleaning, a standalone [cleaning service](https://sparklingstays.com.au/cleaning-service) may suit. Confirm: what’s in the base fee, what’s add-on, and who supplies linen and consumables.

    Maintenance and Repairs

    Management usually coordinates repairs: taking guest or owner reports, booking trades, and supervising access. The cost of the repair is typically the owner’s; labour for coordinating may be included or billed. Emergencies (e.g. burst pipe, no hot water) should be clearly defined—who is called, when, and how you’re notified.

    Reporting and Payments

    You should receive regular financial and performance reports: revenue, occupancy, fees, and payouts. Understand the frequency (e.g. monthly), format, and how and when you get paid. Transparent reporting is part of the service.

    What Might Be Extra

    • Professional photography
    • Restocking beyond basics
    • Gardening or pool care
    • Mid-stay cleans
    • Premium linen or amenities
    • Extra marketing or channel distribution

    Always get a clear list of what’s in the base fee and what’s add-on.

    The Bottom Line

    Airbnb property management should include listing optimisation, pricing, guest communication, check-in/check-out, cleaning between guests, maintenance coordination, and reporting. Exactly how each is delivered will vary—so ask for a written outline of inclusions and exclusions before you commit.

    Want to See Our Inclusions?

    At Sparkling Stays we spell out what’s included in our [property management service](https://sparklingstays.com.au/property-management) so there are no surprises. If you’d like to see how we’d manage your Perth or Fremantle property, get in touch for a no-obligation discussion.

  • Complete Guide to Airbnb Cleaning in Perth

    Airbnb cleaning Perth is one of the first things guests notice and a major driver of reviews. In Perth’s competitive short-term rental market, a single “not clean” comment can cost you bookings. Whether you clean yourself or use a [professional cleaning service](/cleaning-service), you need a clear standard and a system that works every time.

    This guide covers what “Airbnb cleaning” in Perth usually means: what to do, how often, what many owners outsource, and how to keep standards high without burning out. For context on what full support can include, see [what Airbnb property management includes](/blog/what-does-airbnb-property-management-include).

    Why Airbnb Cleaning Standards Matter in Perth

    Guests expect [hotel-like cleanliness](https://www.airbnb.com.au/help/article/1286) (fresh linen, sanitised bathrooms, clean kitchen and floors, and no leftover traces of the previous guest). Consistency matters more than a one-off deep clean—reviews reflect the last stay, so every changeover must hit the same standard.

    What a Typical Changeover Includes

    Bedrooms

    Strip and replace all linen; flip or rotate mattress if applicable; clean under bed; dust surfaces; vacuum and mop.

    Bathrooms

    Sanitise toilet, shower, and basin; clean mirrors and glass; replace towels and basics (toilet paper, soap); mop floor.

    Kitchen

    Clean and sanitise benches, sink, and appliances; empty dishwasher; wipe cupboards and fronts; restock basics (e.g. tea, coffee, detergent) if part of your offer.

    Living and common areas

    Vacuum and mop; dust; clean remotes and high-touch surfaces; empty bins; check and tidy outdoor areas if applicable.

    Laundry

    Wash, dry, and iron linen (or use a linen service); fold and store.

    Times and tasks can be adapted for studios vs large homes, but the standard should stay high.

    How Often to Clean

    Between every guest

    – Non-negotiable. Full changeover, including linen and sanitisation.

    Long stays (e.g. 7+ days)

    Many owners add a mid-stay clean and linen change; it supports reviews and prevents buildup.

    Deep cleans

    Periodic (e.g. monthly or quarterly) for ovens, windows, filters, and behind furniture. Complements regular changeovers.

    DIY vs Professional Cleaning

    Doing it yourself can work if you have time, consistency, and the right products. Many Perth owners, especially with multiple listings or full-time jobs, use a dedicated [Airbnb cleaner](/cleaning-service) or a [management company](/services) that includes cleaning. Benefits of a pro: fixed turn-around times, same standard every time, and no last-minute stress. If you use a manager, confirm exactly what’s included (e.g. linen, restocking, key handover).

    Local Considerations for Airbnb Cleaning in Perth

    Turnaround windows

    – Same-day check-out/check-in is common; cleaning must fit that window or you need flexible check-in times.

    Supplies

    Decide who provides linen, toiletries, and consumables—you or the cleaner/manager.

    Access

    Lockboxes or key handover must be coordinated with cleaning and guest arrival.

    Quality checks

    Either you or your manager should have a simple checklist so nothing is missed.

    Keeping Costs Under Control

    Costs depend on property size, what’s included (e.g. linen, restock), and who does it. [Bundling cleaning with management](/services) often works out simpler and more consistent. Get [quotes](/quotation) that spell out what’s in the price and what’s extra.

    The Bottom Line

    Airbnb cleaning in Perth isn’t just about “cleaning”—it’s about a repeatable, high standard every changeover, with clear roles (you vs cleaner vs manager) and realistic timing. Get that right and your reviews and occupancy will reflect it.

    Need a Hand?

    Sparkling Stays offers professional [Airbnb cleaning](/cleaning-service) as part of our management service across Perth, Fremantle, and surrounding areas. If you want your property to meet guest expectations without doing every changeover yourself, [contact us](/contact) to discuss your setup.

  • Top 10 Suburbs for Airbnb Investment in Perth

    Where you buy or list in Perth can make a big difference to your Airbnb investment and revenue. Choosing the right suburb is as important as choosing the right property for short-term rental in Perth. Some suburbs attract tourists and business travellers year-round; others peak only in summer or around events. If you’re investing in or switching to short-term rental, choosing the right suburb is as important as choosing the right property.

    This list highlights 10 Perth suburbs that consistently perform well for Airbnb and short-term rentals, based on demand, guest mix, and typical returns. Use it as a starting point—then dig into specific streets and property types with a local property manager or data source.

    What Makes a Suburb Strong for Airbnb in Perth

    Strong **Airbnb investment** suburbs in Perth usually combine: proximity to attractions or employment, transport links, a mix of leisure and business demand, and a type of stock (apartments, houses, townhouses) that suits short-term guests. Regulations and body corporate rules also matter, so always check before buying or listing.

    Top 10 Suburbs for Airbnb Investment in Perth

    1. Fremantle — Tourism, events, and character. Strong demand from visitors and locals wanting a “Freo” experience. Apartments and heritage cottages both work; expect strong summer and event peaks.

    2. East Perth — Close to CBD, Optus Stadium, and the river. Popular with business travellers and event-goers. Apartments dominate; views and location drive rates.

    3. Subiaco — Near CBD and hospitals, with cafes and lifestyle appeal. Mix of professionals and short-stay guests. Apartments and smaller houses perform well.

    4. Northbridge / Perth CBD — Maximum convenience for business and city stays. High demand but also high supply; professional management and pricing are essential.

    5. Scarborough — Beach and holiday vibe. Strong seasonal demand; summer peaks and school holidays. Suits coastal-focused listings.

    6. Burswood — Stadium, casino, and events. Event-driven spikes; good for investors who can flex pricing and availability.

    7. Waterford / Salter Point — Family-friendly, river and parks. Attracts longer stays and families; houses and townhouses with space do well.

    8. South Perth — River views, zoo, and easy CBD access. Steady demand from tourists and relocating families. Apartments and houses both viable.

    9. Claremont — Established suburb with shopping and transport. Appeals to professionals and families; steady year-round demand.

    10. Leederville — Cafes, nightlife, and inner-city living. Strong with younger travellers and short business stays. Apartments and smaller homes.

    Important Caveats

    Performance varies by exact location, property type, and how the listing is managed. Body corporate rules can restrict short-term letting in some buildings. Always confirm local rules and get current occupancy and revenue data before investing.

    The Bottom Line

    Picking the right suburb is a key step in maximising your Perth **Airbnb investment**. These 10 suburbs offer a mix of tourism, business, and lifestyle demand—but due diligence and professional management will matter as much as the postcode.

    Want Help in Your Suburb?

    Sparkling Stays manages short-term rentals across Perth, Fremantle, and surrounding areas. If you’re investing or already own in one of these suburbs, we can help you position and manage your property for better returns. Get in touch for a conversation about your situation.

    Contact Us – Sparkling Stays Property Management

  • Airbnb Cleaning Checklist: Professional Standards for Perth Properties

    You know that moment when you walk into a hotel room and everything is spotless? The bed is perfectly made, the bathroom gleams, and there’s that fresh, clean smell? That’s exactly what your Airbnb guests expect—and honestly, it’s what they deserve.

    I’ve seen too many Perth property owners lose bookings (and their five-star ratings) because of one negative review about cleanliness. It’s heartbreaking, really. You’ve put so much effort into creating a beautiful space, but if guests find a hair in the shower or crumbs in the kitchen, that’s what they remember.

    The truth is, maintaining hotel-quality cleanliness isn’t optional for successful Airbnb properties in Perth—it’s essential. But here’s the good news: with the right checklist and approach, you can achieve those professional standards every single time.

    The Checklist That Actually Works

    I’ve put together this checklist based on what we use for our professional cleaning services across Perth. It’s not just about making things look clean—it’s about creating that “wow” moment when guests first walk in.

    Kitchen (Where First Impressions Are Made)

    Let’s start with the kitchen because it’s often the first thing guests check. They want to know: can I cook here? Is it actually clean?

    • All surfaces sanitised and streak-free (I mean really streak-free—grab a microfiber cloth and some glass cleaner)
    • Appliances cleaned inside and out (yes, that means pulling out the oven racks and scrubbing the microwave)
    • Dishwasher emptied and clean (no one wants to find last week’s dishes)
    • All dishes, cutlery, and cookware spotless (check for water spots and fingerprints)
    • Bench tops and splashbacks thoroughly cleaned (run your hand over them—if it feels sticky, keep cleaning)
    • Sink and taps polished (this is where guests notice attention to detail)
    • Pantry and cupboards organised and clean (guests will peek, trust me)

    Bathrooms (The Make-or-Break Room)

    A dirty bathroom will get you a bad review faster than anything else. This is non-negotiable.

    • Toilets sanitised and disinfected (inside, outside, around the base—everywhere)
    • Showers and bathtubs scrubbed and free of soap scum (use a squeegee after every clean to prevent buildup)
    • Mirrors and glass surfaces streak-free (guests use these to get ready—they notice streaks)
    • Vanity and sink areas spotless (check for toothpaste splatters and water spots)
    • Towels replaced with fresh, high-quality linens (nothing says “professional” like fluffy, clean towels)
    • Floor mopped and dried (wet floors are a safety hazard and look unprofessional)
    • All surfaces disinfected (especially handles, taps, and light switches)

    Living Areas (Where Guests Actually Spend Time)

    This is where your guests will relax, so it needs to feel fresh and welcoming.

    • Floors vacuumed and mopped (hardwood) or steam cleaned (carpet) (check under furniture too)
    • Furniture dusted and polished (run your hand along surfaces—if it comes back dusty, keep going)
    • Windows and window sills cleaned (natural light makes everything look better)
    • Light fixtures and switches sanitised (these are touched constantly)
    • Remote controls and electronics cleaned (use alcohol wipes for screens and buttons)
    • Decorative items dusted and arranged (everything should look intentional, not cluttered)

    Bedrooms (Where Sleep Quality Matters)

    Guests remember a comfortable, clean bedroom. This is where they’ll spend most of their time.

    • Fresh, high-quality bed linens (make the bed like a hotel—tight corners, fluffed pillows)
    • Mattress protectors checked and clean (protect your investment and ensure hygiene)
    • Pillows fluffed and arranged (two per person, minimum)
    • Wardrobes and drawers empty and clean (guests will check for storage space)
    • Surfaces dusted (nightstands, dressers, any flat surface)
    • Floors thoroughly cleaned (check under the bed—guests drop things)

    The Reality Check

    Here’s what I’ve learned after cleaning hundreds of Perth properties: consistency is everything. You can’t do a perfect clean one time and then slack off. Guests notice, and they’ll tell everyone in their review.

    But here’s the honest truth: maintaining this level of cleanliness while managing bookings, responding to messages, and living your life? It’s exhausting. Most property owners start strong and then burn out. That’s when standards slip, reviews drop, and bookings decrease.

    Why Professional Cleaning Makes Sense

    I’m not saying you can’t do this yourself—you absolutely can. But professional cleaners bring something you might not have: systems, efficiency, and consistency. We know the shortcuts that work (and the ones that don’t). We have the right products and tools. And most importantly, we show up every single time with the same high standards.

    Our in-house cleaning team serves properties across Perth, Fremantle, Waterford, Salter Point, Bentley, Subiaco, East Perth, Burswood, and throughout Western Australia. We’ve developed our processes over years of cleaning short-term rentals, and we know exactly what guests notice and what they don’t.

    The Bottom Line

    Professional cleaning isn’t just about having a clean property—it’s about protecting your reputation, maintaining your five-star rating, and ensuring guests have an experience worth coming back for. Whether you follow this checklist yourself or work with professional cleaners, the standards need to be consistent.

    Want Help Maintaining These Standards?

    If you’re finding it challenging to maintain these cleaning standards while managing everything else, we’re here to help. Sparkling Stays offers comprehensive cleaning solutions as part of our property management services. We handle the cleaning so you can focus on what matters most to you.

    Contact us today, and let’s chat about how we can help you maintain those professional standards that keep guests happy and bookings coming.

    Contact Us – Sparkling Stays Property Management

  • How Property Management Increases Your Airbnb Revenue by 35%: A Perth Property Owner’s Guide

    Let’s be honest—when you first listed your Perth property on Airbnb, you probably thought, “How hard can this be?” You’d handle bookings, respond to messages, and maybe clean between guests. Simple, right?

    Then reality hit. You found yourself checking your phone at 2am because a guest couldn’t find the Wi‑Fi password. You spent weekends scrubbing bathrooms instead of enjoying your life. And despite all that effort, your revenue wasn’t quite what you’d hoped for.

    Here’s the thing: managing an Airbnb property isn’t just about having a nice place to rent. It’s a full-time job that most property owners aren’t equipped to handle. That’s where professional property management comes in—and the numbers are pretty compelling. Properties under professional management in Perth see an average revenue increase of 35% compared to self-managed listings.

    But how exactly does that work? Let’s break it down.

    The Hidden Costs of DIY Management:

    I’ve spoken to dozens of Perth property owners who started out managing their own listings. They all tell similar stories: what seemed like easy money quickly became a second job. You’re not just hosting guests—you’re running a hospitality business. That means dealing with everything from pricing strategy to emergency maintenance calls at inconvenient times.

    Sarah, a property owner in Fremantle, put it perfectly: “I thought I’d save money by managing it myself. But after six months of 3am messages and weekend cleaning marathons, I realised I was working for less than minimum wage when you factored in all the hours.”

    What Professional Management Actually Does:

    This isn’t about handing over your keys and hoping for the best. Professional property management companies in Perth use sophisticated systems and local expertise to maximise your returns. Here’s what that looks like in practice:

    1. Smart Pricing That Actually Works

    Remember when you set your nightly rate and forgot about it? Professional management doesn’t work that way. We use dynamic pricing algorithms that adjust rates based on real-time demand, local events (like the Perth Festival or Fremantle markets), seasonality, and what your competitors are doing.

    Here’s a real example: during the recent Perth Royal Show, we increased rates for a Subiaco property by 40% because demand was through the roof. The owner would have missed that opportunity entirely if they’d been managing it themselves. That’s not leaving money on the table—that’s leaving money in your pocket.

    2. Guest Experience That Earns Five Stars

    Five-star reviews don’t magically appear. They’re the result of consistent, exceptional service that most property owners simply can’t maintain while juggling their day jobs. Professional management teams handle guest communication 24/7, ensure properties are immaculately maintained, and pay attention to the little details that make stays memorable.

    Think about it: when a guest messages at 10pm asking where to find extra towels, do you want to be the one responding? Or would you rather have a professional team handle it instantly while you’re enjoying your evening?

    3. Marketing That Fills Your Calendar

    Your property might be gorgeous, but if it’s not getting seen by the right people at the right time, it’s sitting empty. Professional management includes expert listing optimisation, professional photography, strategic marketing, and understanding which platforms work best for different property types.

    We’ve seen properties go from 60% occupancy to 85% occupancy just by optimising listings and marketing strategies. That’s the difference between a side income and a serious revenue stream.

    4. Maintenance That Prevents Disasters

    Here’s something most property owners learn the hard way: a small leak becomes a big problem if you don’t catch it early. Professional management includes regular property inspections and proactive maintenance scheduling. We catch issues before they become expensive emergencies, protecting both your property and your wallet.

    Why Local Knowledge Matters:

    Here’s what many property owners don’t realise: Perth isn’t just one market. Fremantle properties appeal to different guests than Subiaco properties. Waterford attracts different demographics than East Perth. Professional management companies understand these nuances because we’re local—we know which events drive demand, which suburbs command premium rates, and how to position your property to attract the right guests.

    Real Results from Real Property Owners:

    At Sparkling Stays, we’ve helped property owners across Perth, Fremantle, Waterford, Salter Point, and throughout Western Australia increase their returns by 25–40%. But here’s what they really appreciate: they get their lives back. No more 2am messages. No more weekend cleaning. No more stress about whether they’re pricing correctly or handling guest issues properly.

    One of our clients, Mark, owns a property in Bentley. He was managing it himself and making decent money, but he was constantly stressed. After switching to professional management, his revenue increased by 32%, and he told us, “I didn’t realise how much this was affecting my quality of life until I handed it over. Now I just check my bank account and smile.”

    The Bottom Line:

    Professional Airbnb property management in Perth isn’t just about convenience—though that’s certainly part of it. It’s about maximising your investment’s potential while reclaiming your time. With the right management company, you can achieve significant revenue increases while enjoying complete peace of mind.

    Ready to See What’s Possible?

    If you’re curious about how professional management could work for your Perth property, we’d love to chat. We offer free consultations where we’ll analyse your current performance and show you exactly what’s possible. No pressure, just honest advice about whether professional management makes sense for your situation.

    Contact Sparkling Stays today, and let’s see how we can help you maximise your property’s potential while you focus on what matters most to you.

    Contact Us – Sparkling Stays Property Management

  • How to Choose the Right Property Management Company in Fremantle

    Fremantle isn’t just another Perth suburb, it’s a distinct market with heritage character, strong tourism, and a particular type of guest. That’s why choosing the right property management company in Fremantle isn’t only about fees; it’s about finding a partner who knows the port city, understands short-term rentals, and can deliver the results you expect.

    Plenty of “Perth-wide” managers list Fremantle on their site but rarely set foot in the area. Others are purely long-term rental focused. For Airbnb and short-term stays in Fremantle, you need a team that gets local demand, events, and what guests are actually looking for. Here’s how to choose.

    Why Fremantle Is Different for Short-Term Rentals

    Fremantle’s mix of tourism, events, and residential demand creates specific opportunities and pitfalls. A good manager will know peak periods (markets, festivals, summer), which streets and property types perform best, and how to position your listing so it stands out without underselling. They should be able to explain why one Fremantle property earns more than another and how they’d apply that to yours.

    What to Look For in a Property Management Company in Fremantle

    Local presence

    Do they list Fremantle as a core area? Can they do viewings, key handovers, and inspections without long drives?

    Short-term rental experience

    Do they specialise in Airbnb and short-term rentals, or is it a side offering? Ask for examples of Fremantle listings they manage.

    Pricing strategy

    How do they set and adjust rates? Do they factor in local events, seasonality, and competition in Fremantle specifically?

    Communication and availability

    Who handles guest messages and issues, and what are their response times? For same-day bookings or last-minute issues, local responsiveness matters.

    Fees and contract

    What’s included (e.g. cleaning, maintenance coordination, restocking)? What’s the term, and what happens if you want to leave?

    Questions to Ask Before Signing

    • How many Fremantle properties do you currently manage?
    • Can you show me performance data (occupancy, revenue) for similar properties in Fremantle?
    • How do you handle peak events (e.g. Fremantle Festival, markets)?
    • What’s your process for guest issues, lockouts, or maintenance after hours?
    • What’s included in the management fee, and what’s extra?
    • How often do I get reports or updates, and in what format?

    Red Flags to Watch For

    • Vague answers about Fremantle or no local examples.
    • Pressure to sign long contracts without a trial or clear exit terms.
    • No clear process for pricing, guest communication, or maintenance.
    • Unwillingness to provide references or sample reports.

    The Bottom Line

    Choosing the right property management company in Fremantle means matching your property and goals with a team that knows the area and specialises in short-term rentals. Take time to compare options, ask the questions above, and only then commit. Your investment and your peace of mind deserve it.

    Ready to Talk?

    If you’re looking for property management in Fremantle with a focus on Airbnb and short-term rentals, we’d be happy to discuss your property and how we could help. Contact Sparkling Stays for a no-obligation chat. Contact Us – Sparkling Stays Property Management