Every day a unit sits empty costs money, so turnovers reward speed — but only if the work is done in an order that doesn't create rework. The most common mistake we see is flooring going in before paint, which guarantees either a slow, careful paint job or a floor that needs touching up.
The correct sequence is almost always: repairs first, then paint, then flooring, then fixtures and hardware, then final clean. Drywall patches and trim repairs happen before anything gets a finish coat. Paint goes on while floors are still protected or absent. Flooring goes in clean. Fixtures and hardware come last so nothing gets scratched during the messy work.
Be selective about what actually affects leasing. Fresh paint and clean flooring move the needle enormously in listing photos and showings. Replacing a functional but dated faucet usually doesn't. Spend where a prospective tenant's eye lands in the first ten seconds — walls, floors, kitchen, bathroom — and be disciplined elsewhere.
Document the unit's condition before work starts. Photos of existing damage protect the security deposit conversation and give you a clear before-and-after for the owner. It takes ten minutes and settles disputes that would otherwise take weeks.
Bundle the trades. Chasing a separate painter, flooring installer and handyman means three schedules, three invoices and three chances for a delay. One crew handling paint, drywall, flooring and repairs turns a three-week turnover into a much shorter one, and gives you a single person to call when something changes.
REO Professional Services handles rental turnovers and property prep across Orlando, Kissimmee, St. Cloud and Central Florida. Call or text (407) 802-9637 for a free estimate.