The Make-Ready Checklist: What to Fix Before You Re-List (So You Don’t Get Burned)
Turning a rental isn’t “clean it and pray.”
If you don’t have a make-ready system, you’ll lose money in three ways:
Vacancy days (the silent killer)
Small repairs that become big repairs
A sloppy listing that attracts sloppy tenants
Make-ready is a repeatable process that gets your property rent-ready fast, photographs better, and reduces maintenance calls for the next 6–12 months.
Here’s the Cano Realty method.
Step 1: Lock Down the Basics (Before You Lift a Finger)
Before you start repairs, stop the chaos.
Collect all keys + garage remotes + mailbox keys
Confirm utilities are ON (electric/water/gas) for inspections + repairs
Re-key / change codes (don’t gamble with old access)
Take move-out photos + video before any work begins
Rule: No repairs until you’ve documented the “as-is” condition.
Step 2: Safety + “No Excuses” Repairs
These items protect you from liability and expensive callbacks.
Safety musts
Smoke alarms working
CO detectors where applicable
Doors lock properly
GFCI outlets work (kitchen/baths/exterior)
No exposed wiring, loose fixtures, or broken outlet plates
Handrails secured, trip hazards removed
Leak check (don’t skip this)
Under every sink
Around toilets (if the toilet rocks, fix it)
Water heater area
Washer connections
If you smell “musty,” don’t paint over it. Find the source.
Step 3: Systems Check (The Vacancy Preventers)
This is where landlords get hurt: tenant moves in… then HVAC fails.
HVAC
Replace the filter (leave a spare)
Test heat + cool
Check condensate line (clogs cause ceiling stains)
Plumbing
Hot water reaches all faucets
Toilets flush strong and refill fast
Shower diverters work correctly
Electrical
Test outlets and switches
Replace flickering bulbs and bad fixtures
Pro move: Spend a little on a basic tech check now to avoid a vacancy disaster later.
Step 4: Cosmetic Fixes That Show Up in Photos
Your listing is judged in seconds. Make it easy for good tenants to say yes.
Patch holes cleanly (no “lumpy patch” under light)
Touch up baseboards and door trim
Repaint high-traffic walls if they look tired
Repair or replace damaged flooring (especially transitions)
Tighten or replace loose/mismatched hardware
Simple truth: If it looks cheap in photos, it rents cheap.
Step 5: Deep Clean Like You Mean It
Not “looks clean.” Clean-clean.
Non-negotiables:
Baseboards wiped
Fans/vents/light fixtures dusted
Stove/oven/hood degreased
Fridge cleaned inside and out
Bathrooms detailed (grout, drains, toilet base, mirrors)
Windows cleaned enough to photograph
If you have to prioritize: kitchen and bathrooms first.
Step 6: Curb Appeal (The Tenant Magnet)
You don’t need fancy landscaping. Just don’t look neglected.
Mow + edge the lawn
Pull weeds near the entry
Trim bushes away from windows and walkways
Replace dead porch light bulbs
Clear webs, nests, and debris
A clean front door moment raises the perceived value instantly.
Step 7: Rent-Ready Quality Control Walk
Do a final walk like you’re the tenant and you’re picky.
Open/close every door and window
Run every faucet for 30 seconds
Flush every toilet
Turn on every light
Test disposal, microwave, stove burners
Check under sinks again (leaks show up after pressure changes)
Use your phone flashlight and check corners and under vanities. That’s where bad work hides.
Step 8: Listing Prep (This Is Where You Get Paid)
Don’t re-list until you’re actually ready.
Confirm pricing using current comps
Set a clear pet policy (don’t freestyle)
Prepare your lease package + required addenda
Take fresh photos after cleaning
Write a description that filters headaches (income requirements, move-in costs, application process)
Pro move: Don’t show the property until it’s 100% ready. Half-ready showings attract half-ready tenants.
Cano Realty Printable Make-Ready Checklist
Copy/paste this into your notes and use it every turn:
Documentation + Access
Keys/remotes collected
Utilities on
Move-out photos/video completed
Locks re-keyed / codes changed
Safety
Smoke alarms working
GFCI outlets tested
Doors lock properly
No trip hazards / loose rails
Systems
HVAC tested (heat + cool)
New filter installed
Plumbing checked (sinks/toilets/showers)
Electrical checked (outlets/switches/lights)
Cosmetics
Holes patched + paint touched up
Floors repaired/cleaned
Hardware tightened/replaced
Clean + Exterior
Kitchen + bathrooms deep cleaned
Fans/vents/windows cleaned
Lawn cut/edged, entry cleaned
Ready to List
Final QC walk complete
Rent price confirmed
Photos taken
Listing is live
Want Cano Realty to Handle the Make-Ready + Leasing?
If you’re tired of vacancy delays, tenant drama, or “death by a thousand repairs,” Cano Realty can help you run your rental like a business.
Reach out through www.canorealtytx.com and we’ll walk you through:
Make-ready plan + vendor coordination
Leasing strategy + tenant screening
Move-in/move-out systems that protect your time and money