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How Does the Move-Out Process Go?

A well-managed move-out process protects your property, reduces vacancy, and ensures accurate handling of the security deposit.

Audience: rental property owners who want to understand MoveZen’s structured move-out workflow, including inspections, communication, repair coordination, and the timeline leading into turnover and relisting.

MoveZen follows a clear, consistent system for all properties, ensuring property owners understand what to expect at every stage. This guide outlines the move-out process from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are property owners notified when residents give notice? Yes. Property owners receive written notification immediately.

Do tenants receive move-out instructions? Yes, including cleaning requirements, utility expectations, and return procedures.

Is there a move-out inspection? Yes. A detailed inspection occurs after the resident vacates.

Do property owners receive photos and a condition report? Yes. Property owners receive a full move-out report with recommendations.

When is the turnover estimate provided? Shortly after the inspection is completed and reviewed.

Move-Out Process Overview

The move-out process follows these key stages:

  1. Tenant Notice
  2. Owner Notification
  3. Move-Out Preparation
  4. Tenant Vacates
  5. Move-Out Inspection
  6. Turnover Estimate
  7. Security Deposit Accounting
  8. Turnover Work Begins
  9. Re-Renting or Selling Decision Finalized

Detailed Process Stages

1. Resident Provides Notice to Vacate

The process begins when the resident submits notice (typically 60 days before lease end).

MoveZen:

  • Confirms lease terms
  • Reviews eligibility for early termination (if applicable)
  • Verifies move-out date
  • Notifies the property owner immediately

2. MoveZen Sends Resident Move-Out Instructions

Residents receive:

  • Cleaning checklist
  • Move-out expectations
  • Utility transfer or shutoff instructions
  • Key and remote return procedures
  • Final rent and proration information
  • Pet-related requirements

These instructions reduce disputes and lower turnover costs.

3. Pre-Move-Out Planning Begins

MoveZen prepares for turnover by:

  • Reviewing property history
  • Checking last inspection reports
  • Planning vendor availability
  • Identifying likely repair needs

This stage helps prevent scheduling gaps.

4. Resident Vacates the Property

On or before the move-out date, the resident:

  • Vacates the home
  • Returns keys and remotes
  • Finalizes utilities
  • Completes cleaning (if they choose to)

Move-out inspection cannot occur until the home is fully vacant.

5. Move-Out Inspection Is Completed

A trained inspector documents:

  • Normal wear versus damage
  • Flooring and paint condition
  • Appliance functionality
  • Cleanliness level
  • Safety devices (smoke and carbon monoxide detectors)
  • Required habitability issues
  • Outdoor condition (if applicable)

Property owners receive:

  • Photo report
  • Written notes
  • Recommendations
  • Identified tenant-caused damage
  • Required versus optional repairs

6. Turnover Estimate Is Prepared

Based on the inspection, MoveZen creates an itemized estimate.

This includes:

  • Required repairs
  • Optional upgrades
  • Cleaning scope
  • Flooring and paint recommendations
  • Timeline for completion
  • Impact on rental pricing

Property owners can request adjustments or ask questions about the estimate.

7. Security Deposit Accounting Begins

MoveZen performs the legally required accounting to determine:

  • Tenant charges for damage beyond normal wear and tear
  • Cleaning charges
  • Unpaid rent
  • Other allowable deductions
  • Remaining balance owed to tenant (if any)

Property owners receive:

  • Copy of the deposit ledger
  • Explanation of charges
  • Supporting documentation

8. Turnover Repairs Are Scheduled and Completed

Once approved, vendors are scheduled for:

  • Cleaning
  • Painting
  • Flooring
  • Repairs
  • Safety compliance

MoveZen coordinates all scheduling and invoicing. Property owners receive updates as milestones are completed.

9. The Home Is Prepared for New Photos and Marketing

Once repairs are completed:

  • New marketing photos are taken
  • Listing description is updated
  • Pricing is reviewed
  • The home is published on major rental platforms

If the property owner chooses to sell, preparation follows a different process.

10. Re-Renting or Selling Process Begins

After the home is market-ready:

  • Showings begin
  • Rental applications are received
  • Prospects are screened
  • MoveZen recommends an applicant
  • Lease signing occurs once approved

This completes the full move-out to turnover to re-list cycle.

Best Practices During the Move-Out Process

Property owners should consider the following during the move-out process:

  • Review the move-out inspection report thoroughly
  • Ask questions early to prevent delays
  • Approve turnover costs promptly to minimize vacancy duration
  • Evaluate whether upgrades can increase rental income
  • Consider long-term strategy (re-rent versus sell)

Early engagement and prompt decision-making help minimize vacancy periods and optimize property performance.