Q: What is the normal time frame for a one- or two-bedroom make-ready? I have always heard the three-day rule to turn an apartment, but mine seem to be on the three-week rule! How can I tighten up the process?

A: The “three-day rule” is a nice goal to strive for and can be done, but most apartments are not in rent-ready condition when we get them back from our departing residents. Here’s a useful timetable and work schedule for a one- or two-bedroom apartment requiring complete paint, carpet, flooring, minor repairs, window coverings and cleaning.

Days 1 & 2: Paint prep, trash out, minor repairs, removal of blinds, drapes, switch outlet plates, etc.

Day 3: Paint

Day 4: Carpet/Flooring

Day 5: Installation of window coverings, doorstops, switch/outlet plates, fixtures, accessories, toilet seat, etc. Touch-up paint if needed.

Day 6: Cleaning – General cleaning including windows & final inspection.

You can plan what needs to be done before the unit is vacant if you have done a pre-inspection before the resident moves out, giving you the ability to organize maintenance techs and contractors ahead of time and have all the repair and replacement parts ready to go. The key is to plan each day and try to stick to the plan.

Q: What is one thing I can do to make an older rental unit appear more modern? I don’t want to do a complete rehab, just a few touches to appear more up to date.

A: We have recently discovered an easy way to make many people very happy with a simple update to a unit: Purchase and install wall outlets with USB ports. Today, everybody has a phone and or a tablet that needs charging. Install a USB-enabled receptacle in the kitchen, in each bedroom and along any suitable flat surface. Another idea is to replace boring kitchen cabinet knobs with nice modern updated knobs. This will lift the look of your kitchen and bathrooms without breaking the bank.

Do you have DIY maintenance questions? Send them to [email protected].