Make-ready work turns a vacant unit from move-out condition into a rent-ready space. The best results come from a defined scope, clear sequencing, and a final quality-control walk before the leasing team receives the unit.
Make-Ready Work for Vacant Units
Common needs include patching walls, repainting worn areas, replacing damaged flooring, adjusting doors and trim, refreshing bathroom finishes, removing abandoned items, and completing final punch-list work.
Build the Scope From the Unit Condition
Not every apartment needs the same package. A lightly used unit may need cleaning and touchups. A heavily worn unit may require drywall repair, full repainting, flooring replacement, and carpentry. Documenting the actual condition keeps the work focused.
Sequence Trades to Avoid Rework
Repairs should happen before finish painting. Flooring should not be damaged by later demolition. Final cleaning belongs at the end. Coordinating the order of work helps protect completed finishes and reduces duplicate labor.
Close Out With a Property-Manager Punch List
A final walk should compare completed work with the approved scope. Remaining touchups, missing hardware, paint defects, debris, and incomplete repairs should be captured before the unit is released.
How This Fits the Turnover Process
- Walk the unit: Document condition, photos, priorities, and leasing deadline.
- Approve the scope: Define included work, exclusions, materials, and any items that need separate trade approval.
- Complete work in sequence: Handle removal and repairs before finish work, then protect completed surfaces.
- Perform a punch walk: Compare the completed unit with the approved scope and close out remaining details.
Built Around Property-Manager Coordination
For multifamily turnovers, communication is part of the work. The property team should know which unit is active, what is complete, what is waiting on material or approval, and what remains before the unit can be released. When several units are involved, consistent scopes and photo documentation can make that process easier to manage.
This site handles service requests and helps route project information. Provider, scope, schedule, pricing, and availability must be confirmed for each property before work is booked.
Request Turnover Pricing
Send the property address, unit number, target ready date, and the work you need. If possible, include photos and note whether the unit is vacant. For multiple units, list the priority order so the request can be reviewed as a batch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you work with occupied units?
Turnover work is typically easiest in vacant units. If a unit is occupied, note that in the request so access and scope can be evaluated.
Can several services be combined in one turnover?
Yes. A make-ready scope can combine compatible repair, paint, flooring, cleanout, and punch-list items when the provider and schedule are confirmed.
Can I send multiple units at once?
Yes. Include unit numbers, target ready dates, and priorities so the request can be organized by deadline.
Do I need photos?
Photos are useful for initial scope review, especially when they show wall damage, flooring condition, bathrooms, doors, trim, and abandoned contents.
Is pricing fixed before the unit is reviewed?
No. Pricing depends on the actual condition, quantities, materials, access, and deadline. The approved scope should define what is included.