Why Make-Ready Matters
Every vacant day costs money. But rushing turnovers leads to unhappy tenants and expensive callbacks. The balance is a systematic approach.
The Make-Ready Sequence
Phase 1: Assessment (Day 1)
Walk the property and document:
- [ ] Walls: holes, marks, damage
- [ ] Flooring: wear, stains, damage
- [ ] Fixtures: operation, appearance
- [ ] Appliances: function, cleanliness
- [ ] Plumbing: leaks, drains, toilets
- [ ] HVAC: operation, filter condition
- [ ] Exterior: damage, cleanliness
Phase 2: Repairs (Days 2-4)
Address functional issues:
- Patch walls (overnight dry time)
- Fix leaky faucets
- Repair or replace broken fixtures
- Address electrical issues
- Fix door/window problems
Phase 3: Refresh (Days 4-6)
Cosmetic updates:
- Paint touch-ups or full rooms
- Deep clean all surfaces
- Replace worn caulk
- Install new outlet/switch covers
- Update hardware if dated
Planning creates beautiful spaces
Quality craftsmanship and attention to detail make the difference in every remodeling project. We bring years of experience to Central Kentucky homes and businesses.
Phase 4: Deep Clean (Day 7)
Final preparation:
- Professional carpet clean
- Window washing
- Appliance deep clean
- Cabinet interior wipe-down
- Final inspection
Common Make-Ready Items
Almost Every Turnover
- Wall touch-ups/painting
- Carpet cleaning or replacement
- Deep cleaning
- New toilet seats
- Filter replacement
- Smoke detector batteries
Frequent Items
- Drywall repairs
- Light fixture updates
- Faucet cartridge replacement
- Weatherstripping
- Caulk refresh
- Outlet cover replacement
Occasional Items
- Flooring replacement
- Appliance replacement
- Full interior paint
- Cabinet repainting
- Fixture upgrades
Budget Guidelines
For Central Kentucky rentals:
- Basic turnover: $500-1,500
- Moderate refresh: $1,500-4,000
- Major update: $4,000-10,000+
Minimizing Future Turnovers
During make-ready, consider:
- Durable paint finishes (satin/eggshell)
- LVP instead of carpet
- Lever-style door handles
- Commercial-grade fixtures
- Neutral, timeless colors
Working with a Make-Ready Team
Benefits of a consistent contractor:
- Knows your properties and standards
- Faster mobilization
- Volume pricing
- Single point of contact
- Accountable for quality
Schedule make-ready service - we work with Central Kentucky landlords and property managers.
Planning the work
Whether you're planning a full remodel or need handyman repairs, we're here to help. Our team serves Nicholasville, Lexington, and throughout Central Kentucky.
