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Kyle Curtin
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Move in/move out condition checklists for tenants?

Kyle Curtin
  • Real Estate Agent
  • Tewksbury, MA
Posted Dec 1 2022, 05:28

Gooooood mornin’ BP!

      Does anyone like to include unit condition checklists that new tenants moving in/moving out have to sign to keep them accountable? 

I hope you all have a fantastic day today!

Kyle :) 

#worcester #lowell #boston #fitchburg #leominster #gardner 

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Nate Sanow
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Nate Sanow
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Replied Dec 1 2022, 06:01

I haven’t been doing it yet, as I self manage and have a decent memory.  I do probably need to start but haven’t been messed over yet or messed with someone else in that sense…

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Eliott Elias#3 BRRRR - Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat Contributor
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Eliott Elias#3 BRRRR - Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat Contributor
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Replied Dec 1 2022, 06:28

They fill out a condition checklist upon move in. I either fix all issues or acknowledge it to not be taken from security deposit. Once move out comes around I assess the condition, any abnormal wear and tear is taken out of the security deposit 

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Jeremy H.
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Jeremy H.
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  • Lafayette, LA
Replied Dec 1 2022, 06:31

Yes - always. 

Important to document with both a written condition form AND pictures. 

It's usually not needed until a problem arises, BUT when you have a problem you'll be glad you have it. 

Other thing - if the tenant doesn't fill it out and return it then the unit is considered to be in good working condition

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Thomas Wheeler
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Thomas Wheeler
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Replied Dec 1 2022, 06:31

Good morning Kyle!

I would consider this a must have. Not only the check list, but also pictures from each walk through. I promise that some day this will be the difference in thousands of dollars to you. Also, memories don't serve both parties equally, so you will need objective evidence. Pictures, check list, signatures, and good organization is best practice for when things go sideways. 

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Bob Stevens
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Bob Stevens
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Replied Dec 1 2022, 06:33
Quote from @Kyle Curtin:

Gooooood mornin’ BP!

      Does anyone like to include unit condition checklists that new tenants moving in/moving out have to sign to keep them accountable? 

I hope you all have a fantastic day today!

Kyle :) 

#worcester #lowell #boston #fitchburg #leominster #gardner 


 We have a move in packet, This has a list of everything. The tenant then signs off indicating all is well

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Joshuam R.
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Joshuam R.
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Replied Dec 1 2022, 07:28

I skip a listed checklist item.

I did this instead created a key plan page, and a page for each room in the house, we all walked each room, and they have the chance to make notes or leave the page blank, each page is initialed by each member. The same will be done when they leave.

I also document each room with pictures taken the day off all angles, all walls, ceiling, floor, inside cabinets, everything. After it is done with and documents signed, I share copies with them and also picture album.

Treat this process like renting on Turo.

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Jacob St. Martin
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Jacob St. Martin
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Replied Dec 1 2022, 08:14

Definitely! This is actually required by law in many states and is a best practice anyway. It protects you and the tenant so you never end up in a he said she said kind of scenario

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Kenneth Garrett
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Kenneth Garrett
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Replied Dec 1 2022, 08:46

@Kyle Curtin

I’ve always used one from day 1. I use this to determine what the cost are associated with damage to the unit outside of ordinary wear and tear. I send them a copy of the sheet they filled out and my notes relative to withholding cost via the security deposit return.  My checkin/checkout sheet also tells them the cost associated with damage to the unit.  It’s pretty thorough, but I’m always updating it as things crop up.  You can never address all situations.

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Malkia Ra
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Malkia Ra
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Replied Dec 1 2022, 09:53

Pictures and video.

I also perform a pre move-in and post move-out walkthrough with each tenant; this way we can identify together if there are any issues.  

(I also give my tenants 48 hours after move-in to identify any concerns or issues that may have been missed during their pre-move in inspection)