What is a Make Ready in the Property Management World

What is a Make Ready in the Property Management World?

A Make Ready is a process that property managers or landlords use to prepare a rental home for new tenants. It involves a series of tasks that are designed to ensure that the rental property is clean, safe, and ready for occupancy. The Make Ready process typically involves the following steps:

1. Cleaning – The first step of the Make Ready process is to clean the entire rental home. This includes sweeping and mopping floors, wiping down surfaces, cleaning windows, and sanitizing bathrooms and kitchens. Carpets may also need to be professionally cleaned.
2. Repairs and Maintenance – Any repairs or maintenance issues that need to be addressed should be taken care of during the Make Ready process. This can include fixing leaky faucets, replacing light bulbs, repairing broken tiles or walls, and ensuring that all appliances are in good working order.
3. Painting – If necessary, the property manager or landlord may choose to paint the rental home. This could involve repainting the entire interior or just touching up areas where there are scuffs or marks.
4. Replacing and Upgrading – During the process, the landlord may choose to replace outdated appliances or upgrade fixtures to enhance the overall appeal of the rental home.
5. Inspections – Before the rental home is ready for occupancy, it should be thoroughly inspected to ensure that everything is in working order, and there are no safety hazards.

The Make Ready process is critical because it ensures that the rental home is in excellent condition for the new tenants. Bob Barnett, Maintenance Director of Real Property Management Houston stated that “A Make Ready is the most important part of the leasing process. If the property is in need of improvements and they are not done – the property will more than likely stay on the market longer.” It is the responsibility of the landlord or property manager to complete the Make Ready process, and it should be done in a timely manner to avoid any delays in renting the property. By preparing the rental home properly, tenants are more likely to be satisfied with the property, leading to better relationships between tenants and landlords and higher occupancy rates.