Being a property owner comes with many responsibilities, including tenant screening, lease management, rent collection, property maintenance, and compliance with local and state laws and requirements. One critical task that needs to be completed promptly and efficiently is getting a unit ready to rent again after a tenant has moved out.
As a property manager, it is essential to fine-tune your turnover process so that the unit is quickly ready to be rented and in the condition you promised in the listing. Here are some suggestions for getting your unit “renter-ready.”
Cleaning & Maintenance
To be functional, a unit should be clean, safe, and livable again. The first step in accomplishing this goal is to schedule a deep cleaning on the same day the previous tenants move out.
Using your team or a cleaning crew, thoroughly clean, sweep, mop, and scrub the space to remove dirt, debris, and grime. This cleaning includes utility areas like the bathroom and kitchen, which are the most used and see the most traffic. Any trash or furnishings that were left behind should be removed and dealt with immediately.
Depending on the timing of your turnover, consider completing general maintenance that is not as easily done while the unit is occupied. This could include painting, appliance upgrades, updating fixtures or replacing/refreshing carpets or floors.
Update Security Features
Safety is key to making a property renter-ready. During the transition, it is a good idea to change major locks, update passwords and test all security alarms.
Rental units are also required to be up-to-date with local safety regulations. This includes functional smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and compliant electrical and plumbing systems. Ensuring safety compliance protects your tenants and shields you from potential legal issues and fines.
The turnover period is also a good time to replace or repair outdoor lighting so that the renters have illuminated entryways and walkways, making the property safer.
Cosmetic Changes
While helpful, but not always needed, cosmetic changes may be part of making a unit renter-ready. As we mentioned earlier, painting can do wonders to transform a dirty and dark space into something fresh and new. Beyond paint, consider other areas that could use a little facelift, such as the doorway, hallways leading to the unit, lighting fixtures, and custom closet organizers. These small changes can add value to your rental units and make them more attractive to future renters.
Making a unit renter-ready involves keeping it clean, well-maintained, safe, livable, and legally compliant. These steps prepare the unit for a new tenant to move in and enjoy their new home.
Need help maintaining your property? We provide and ensure efficient management strategies, cost-effective financial planning, meticulous administrative services during construction, and open, transparent communication between residents, property owners, and homeowners/condo associations. Contact us for assistance.