A real estate firm has launched a pioneering company to rent furniture to new Island residents.

Albert and Debbie Moura, who run Moura & Associates, spotted a gap in the market in catering to overseas workers.

Now they aim to provide customised packages named after Island beaches for properties ranging from studios to large family homes through TurnKey Furniture Rentals.

Ms Moura — who has a background in interior design — said: “The packages are fixed to include the pieces of furniture deemed necessary to fill a space.

“There is a level of flexibility through different rental options, with the option to add on a TV and TV stand if needed.”

Mr Moura said that furniture rental businesses — popular in North America — had never taken off in Bermuda, despite its large expatriate population.

He added: “In our line of business, we see a lot of people moving to the Island for only one to five years and, because of their relatively short stay, a lot are less than eager to purchase new furniture or go through the expense of importing their own furniture and paying duty on it.

“To help alleviate the stress of finding furniture, TurnKey provides the opportunity for new residents to have their homes or apartments completely furnished quickly and cost effectively.”

And he added that the service meant not only less time hunting down furniture, but co-ordinated packages featuring a dash of style as well as convenience.

TurnKey also arrange delivery and pick-up.

The company will be run on a day-to-day basis by the couple’s son Justin.

And Turnkey aims to expand the business in the future to include small kitchen appliances and accessories, as well as outdoor furniture.