When it comes to preparing your apartment for rent or sale, a thorough make-ready process is crucial to attract potential buyers or renters. A well-prepared apartment can make a significant difference in how quickly it's rented or sold, and for how much. In this article, we'll outline 7 essential items to include in your apartment make-ready checklist to ensure your property is presented in its best possible condition.
1. Cleaning and Disinfecting
A thorough cleaning and disinfecting of the apartment is the first step in the make-ready process. This includes dusting and polishing all surfaces, cleaning the floors, and disinfecting the bathrooms and kitchen. Pay particular attention to high-touch areas such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops. Consider hiring a professional cleaning service to ensure a deep clean.
Deep Cleaning Tasks:
- Clean out and disinfect the refrigerator, stove, and dishwasher
- Dust and clean all windows and blinds
- Vacuum and steam clean all carpets and upholstery
- Clean and disinfect all bathrooms, including the shower, sink, and toilet
2. Repairing and Replacing
The next step is to repair or replace any damaged or broken items in the apartment. This includes fixing leaky faucets, replacing light bulbs, and repairing any holes in the walls. Consider hiring a handyman or contractor to help with any major repairs.
Repair and Replacement Tasks:
- Fix any leaky faucets or toilets
- Replace any broken or missing light fixtures
- Repair any holes or cracks in the walls
- Replace any damaged or broken appliances
3. Painting and Touch-ups
A fresh coat of paint can make a big difference in the appearance of the apartment. Consider painting the walls, ceilings, and trim to give the apartment a clean and updated look. Also, touch up any scratches or scuffs on the walls and floors.
Painting and Touch-up Tasks:
- Paint the walls, ceilings, and trim
- Touch up any scratches or scuffs on the walls and floors
- Paint any stained or damaged woodwork
4. Carpet and Flooring
The condition of the carpet and flooring can greatly impact the appearance of the apartment. Consider replacing any damaged or stained carpet, and refinishing or replacing any damaged hardwood floors.
Carpet and Flooring Tasks:
- Inspect the carpet for stains and damage
- Replace any damaged or stained carpet
- Refinish or replace any damaged hardwood floors
5. Lighting and Electrical
Adequate lighting can make a big difference in the appearance of the apartment. Consider replacing any broken or outdated light fixtures, and adding additional lighting to any dark areas.
Lighting and Electrical Tasks:
- Replace any broken or outdated light fixtures
- Add additional lighting to any dark areas
- Inspect the electrical outlets and switches for damage
6. Plumbing and Water Fixtures
The condition of the plumbing and water fixtures can greatly impact the functionality of the apartment. Consider replacing any broken or outdated fixtures, and inspecting the plumbing for leaks.
Plumbing and Water Fixtures Tasks:
- Inspect the plumbing for leaks
- Replace any broken or outdated fixtures
- Check the water pressure and temperature
7. Landscaping and Outdoor Spaces
The condition of the landscaping and outdoor spaces can greatly impact the curb appeal of the apartment. Consider cleaning up any debris, trimming any overgrown bushes, and adding some colorful flowers or plants.
Landscaping and Outdoor Spaces Tasks:
- Clean up any debris
- Trim any overgrown bushes
- Add some colorful flowers or plants
By including these 7 essential items in your apartment make-ready checklist, you can ensure your property is presented in its best possible condition. Remember to also consider hiring professionals to help with any major repairs or tasks. With a little bit of effort, you can attract potential buyers or renters and get your apartment rented or sold quickly.
What's Next?
Now that you have a comprehensive apartment make-ready checklist, it's time to get started. Remember to also consider the following:
- Hire professionals to help with any major repairs or tasks
- Take before and after photos to document the process
- Consider staging the apartment to make it more attractive to potential buyers or renters
By following these tips and including these 7 essential items in your apartment make-ready checklist, you can ensure your property is presented in its best possible condition.
What is the most important item on the apartment make-ready checklist?
+The most important item on the apartment make-ready checklist is cleaning and disinfecting. A thorough cleaning and disinfecting of the apartment is crucial to attract potential buyers or renters.
How long does it take to complete the apartment make-ready process?
+The length of time it takes to complete the apartment make-ready process can vary depending on the condition of the apartment and the number of tasks that need to be completed. On average, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to complete the process.
Can I hire professionals to help with the apartment make-ready process?
+Yes, you can hire professionals to help with the apartment make-ready process. Consider hiring a cleaning service, handyman, or contractor to help with any major repairs or tasks.