Not just a dripping faucet or a loose fitting — a slab leak, the kind that sends a cold jolt down any property owner’s spine.Thankfully, the tenant was quick to act.

You can also find great deals on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace for cabinets, faucets, and tiles.Tip 4: Add Shelving to Existing CabinetsTenants love organized kitchens. 

I can see the cost of materials and supplies go up, from lumber to faucets to joist hangers, which in turn will drive new construction prices.

Kitchens are the same way, make sure everything works, replace the faucet, make sure pipes are clear, flooring, clean up/refinish cabinets and add new hardware makes them pop. 

Beyond installing faucets, vanities, toilets, or doing basic electrical repairs I'm not doing any of it.

I make sure that when I am doing major work that I plan to avoid potential problems on a Sunday. ie I am not replacing valves and faucets on a Sunday in case something breaks and I need to shut off water and go get a new part to fix it and they are all closed until the next morning. 

Nothing undermines a rent hike faster than a leaky faucet or a broken heater.

For example, instead of saying “replace vanity,” say “install 30” white shaker-style vanity with brushed nickel faucet, materials provided.”

If this were my rental, I might think about adding deeper sinks plus a lot of self stick back splash tile, More than normal all the way to the floor and possibly a black faucet kit, (Knowing that the service life on the Black faucet is probably less than 10 years).

Here's the sequence we typically follow:​🏗️ Interior Rehab SequencePre-Closing PreparationScope of Work: Conduct a thorough walkthrough to identify structural issues, outdated systems, and cosmetic updates needed.Budgeting: Develop a detailed budget, including a contingency for unforeseen expenses.Permits: Obtain necessary permits to avoid delays.​DemolitionSelective Removal: Remove outdated or damaged materials while preserving elements that can be reused.Site Preparation: Ensure the site is clean and safe for the upcoming work.​Structural Repairs & FramingFoundation & Framing: Address any foundational issues and modify framing as needed for new layouts.Inspections: Schedule inspections to ensure compliance with building codes.​Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Rough-InsSystems Installation: Install or update HVAC, electrical wiring, and plumbing systems.Inspections: Conduct rough-in inspections before proceeding.​Insulation & DrywallInsulation: Install insulation to meet energy codes and improve efficiency.Drywall: Hang, tape, and finish drywall, preparing surfaces for painting.​Interior FinishesPainting: Apply primer and paint to walls and ceilings.Flooring: Install flooring materials, ensuring they are protected during subsequent work.Trim & Millwork: Add baseboards, crown molding, and other decorative elements.​Cabinetry & FixturesCabinets: Install kitchen and bathroom cabinets.Fixtures: Mount sinks, faucets, lighting fixtures, and hardware.​Appliances & Final TouchesAppliances: Install kitchen appliances and test for proper operation.Final Inspection: Conduct a thorough walkthrough to address any punch list items.​⏱️ Timeline & Efficiency TipsProject Duration: Aim for a 3–4 month timeline, adjusting based on project scope.Scheduling: Use project management tools to coordinate trades and avoid downtime.Communication: Maintain clear communication with contractors and suppliers to ensure timely deliveries and work completion.​📋 Tools & ResourcesProject Management: Utilize software like Trello or Asana to track progress and tasks.Checklists: Develop standardized checklists for each phase to ensure consistency across projects.Budget Tracking: Use spreadsheets or financial software to monitor expenses and stay within budget.​