3 Steps to Get Your Rental Move-In Ready

Cassie McClenaghan • March 5, 2025

3 Steps to Get Your Rental Move-In Ready

Learn my three-step process to prepare your rental property, avoid costly tenant damage, and make your unit move-in ready faster than ever.

A vacant rental means lost income, but rushing to fill it without proper preparation can lead to costly repairs and tenant issues. If you own rental property, knowing how to handle tenant turnover the right way can save you time and money. In this video, I’ll show you three essential steps to get your property move-in ready while protecting your investment and attracting the best tenants.


Tenant expectations are higher than ever, and in today’s market, a well-maintained rental will fill faster and command better rent. Whether you’re dealing with your first turnover or looking to improve your process, understanding how to properly inspect, clean, and market your rental can make all the difference.



1. Conduct a thorough move-out inspection. Before making any repairs, walk through the property and compare it to the original move-in checklist. Document everything with photos and videos, and note any tenant-caused damage versus normal wear and tear. If deductions are necessary, follow the lease agreement to ensure a fair process. Providing tenants with a move-out checklist ahead of time can help reduce disputes and ensure a smoother transition.

"Listing on platforms like Zillow and Apartments.com will help attract reliable tenants quickly."

2. Repair, deep clean, and upgrade. A well-maintained rental attracts better tenants and rents faster. Start with essential repairs like fixing leaks, patching holes, and ensuring all appliances work. Deep clean everything—carpets, walls, baseboards, and air vents. If needed, add small upgrades like fresh paint, modern lighting, or updated hardware to enhance the property’s appeal and justify competitive pricing.


3. Secure the property and market it effectively. Before listing your rental, re-key locks or update entry codes for security. Double-check that all doors, windows, and security systems are working properly. Take high-quality listing photos and price the rental competitively based on market research. Listing on platforms like Zillow and Apartments.com will help attract reliable tenants quickly.


By following these steps, you can minimize vacancy time, protect your investment, and secure the best possible tenants. Call or email me today to make the process easy and stress-free.

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