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What If I Don’t Have the Funds for a Major Turnover?

The good news? You have options. MoveZen works with many owners who need flexibility, guidance, and a strategy to prepare the home without unnecessary financial strain.

Audience: rental property owners facing significant turnover costs after a tenant moves out and who may need alternative strategies, prioritization guidance, or financial planning support.

A major turnover can feel overwhelming—especially if the home needs multiple repairs, full paint, flooring replacement, or capital improvements after years of tenancy. Many owners worry about the total cost or how to pay for necessary work.

Here's what to do if your turnover estimate is higher than you expected or you don't currently have the funds available.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to delay some turnover items? Yes. Optional cosmetic upgrades can often be postponed.

Can I re-rent without doing all recommended work? Some items are required, but many are optional.

Can MoveZen help prioritize the most important items first? Absolutely. MoveZen can help you create a phased plan.

Is financing available? In certain markets, yes—and property owners may also use reserves or tax refunds.

What happens if I don't complete required safety items? The home cannot be legally or ethically re-rented until they're resolved.

Common Reasons Turnover Costs Feel High

Turnover expenses rise when:

  • A tenant lived in the home 3-7+ years
  • Flooring has reached end-of-life
  • Paint is worn, dirty, or outdated
  • Appliances or fixtures are aging
  • Deep cleaning is required
  • Pet-related wear accumulated
  • The home hasn't been updated in many years

These factors are normal parts of rental home ownership—not failures.

Related: https://know.movezen360.com/im-a-rental-property-owner-and-ive-had-the-same-tenant-in-my-property-for-5-years.-what-repairs-should-i-expect-to-have-to-complete-after-a-longer-tenancy

What To Do If You Can't Cover the Full Turnover Right Away

Here are the most common and effective strategies.

1. Prioritize Required Items First

Certain items must be completed before re-renting:

  • Smoke/CO detectors
  • Major leaks or plumbing issues
  • Flooring hazards
  • Broken appliances essential for habitability
  • Deep cleaning
  • Safety or compliance items
  • Repairs for damaged walls, rot, or water intrusion

MoveZen will help you identify the non-negotiable items vs. optional ones.

2. Delay Optional Cosmetic Upgrades

These items can often be postponed:

  • Fixture upgrades
  • Accent painting
  • Cosmetic trim work
  • Decorative lighting
  • Optional landscaping
  • Minor flooring touch-ups

You may re-rent the home first and complete cosmetic work later.

 

3. Consider Phased Turnover Work

MoveZen can help break the turnover into stages:

  • Phase 1: Required & safety items
  • Phase 2: Cleaning + habitability essentials
  • Phase 3: Cosmetic or value-boosting upgrades

This reduces upfront cost while still preparing the home for market.

 

4. Use Owner Reserves or Withheld Rent

If reserves exist in your trust account, they can be applied to turnover.

If you anticipate the tenant's last payment, MoveZen can temporarily retain funds to apply toward repairs (case-by-case).

Related: https://know.movezen360.com/my-tenant-is-moving-out-soon-and-i-want-to-prepare-for-turnover-expenses.-is-it-an-option-for-movezen-to-retain-the-final-months-rent-payment-to-put-toward-repair-expenses

5. Explore Financing or Payment Options

Some property owners consider:

  • Short-term financing
  • Credit card promotional rates
  • Home equity access
  • Vendor financing (select markets)

Turnover work is often tax-deductible—consult your CPA.

6. Use Your Own Vendor (If Allowed)

In many markets, property owners may supply their own vendor, provided:

  • Vendor is insured
  • Vendor is licensed (when required)
  • Work meets habitability standards
  • Work is completed promptly

This can reduce costs but may extend downtime if scheduling is slow.

7. Consider a Different Strategic Path

If turnover costs exceed your comfort level, you may decide to:

  • Re-price the rental more competitively
  • Do partial updates and accept lower rent
  • Sell the home instead of re-renting
  • Extend the tenant's stay (if they haven't given notice yet)

Related: https://know.movezen360.com/can-you-outline-the-process-i-might-use-to-determine-if-re-renting-the-home-is-the-right-idea

8. Let MoveZen Help You Prioritize for Maximum ROI

Some upgrades offer high returns (LVP flooring, paint, modern fixtures), while others offer little value.

MoveZen can guide you based on:

  • Neighborhood expectations
  • Applicant feedback
  • Current rental demand
  • Comparable upgrades

This ensures your money is spent where it actually increases rent or reduces vacancy.

What Not To Do When Facing a Costly Turnover

Avoid these pitfalls:

  • Re-renting the home with safety defects
  • Ignoring worn flooring or hazards
  • Attempting DIY fixes that violate code
  • Delaying required work (this leads to lower rent and more vacancy)
  • Renting in "as-is" condition without discussing market impact

A poorly prepared home can cost more in the long run.