Property Rehab Checklist
Property Rehab Checklist
Here is your Property Rehab Checklist.
Property Rehab Checklist Basics / Pre‑planning
- Define project goal: flip, rent, long‑term hold — set timeline and ROI target.
- Property assessment: full walk‑through, note cosmetic vs. structural issues.
- Hire inspector for foundation, roof, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, pests, mold.
- Obtain property survey and title/HOA restrictions.
- Secure permits and verify local code requirements.
- Assemble team: GC or trade contractors, architect/engineer (if structural), real estate attorney, property manager (if rental).
- Create realistic schedule with milestones and contingency days.
Property Rehab Checklist Budget organization
- Create line‑item budget categories.
- Get 3 bids for major trades; use unit costs for repeatable items.
- Contingency: 10–20% for cosmetic projects, 15–25% for older/unknown‑condition homes.
- Holdback: 5–10% to release after final walkthrough/punch list.
- Financing plan: cash, rehab loan, bridge loan — include interest/fees in budget.
- Tracking: use spreadsheet or rehab software with actual vs. budget columns and running totals.
- Approvals: set owner thresholds for change orders (e.g., >$1,000 requires sign‑off).
Sample budget allocation (adjust by project):
- Structural/roof/foundation: 15–30%
- Systems (electrical/plumbing/HVAC): 15–25%
- Exterior/curb appeal (roof, siding, landscaping, windows): 10–20%
- Kitchens and baths (finishes + fixtures): 15–25%
- Interior finishes and flooring: 10–15%
- Soft costs (permits, fees, inspections, design): 3–7%
- Contingency: 10–20%
Major construction phases and checklist
- Demolition and site prep
- Protect remaining elements, safety signage, dumpster, dust barriers.
- Disconnect utilities as required; temporary power if needed.
- Structural repairs
- Foundation fixes, framing, load‑bearing changes — engineer sign‑off.
- Roof repair/replacement, flashing, gutters.
- Building envelope
- Windows/doors, insulation, siding, waterproofing.
- Systems upgrades
- Electrical: panel upgrades, new circuits, code compliance.
- Plumbing: re‑pipe if needed, main lines, fixtures rough‑in, water heater.
- HVAC: replace or service, ductwork, thermostat.
- Rough‑ins and inspections
- Schedule and pass required rough inspections for trades.
- Insulation, drywall, and interior prep
- Insulate, vapor barriers, drywall hung/taped/primed.
- Interior finishes
- Flooring, trim, cabinetry, countertops, tile, paint.
- Lighting, plumbing fixtures, appliances installation.
- Exterior and landscaping
- Driveway/porch repairs, paint/stain, grading/drainage, basic landscaping for curb appeal.
- Final systems commissioning
- Test HVAC, electrical loads, plumbing leaks, hot water, smoke/CO alarms.
Property Rehab Checklist Finalizing / Closeout
- Final inspections and certificates of occupancy.
- Create punch list; contractor completion and re‑inspection.
- Deep clean and remove construction debris.
- Final landscaping/curb appeal staging touches.
- Document control:
- Collect warranties, manuals, lien waivers, paid invoices, permits, inspection reports.
- Photo before/after library.
- Safety and compliance:
- Install required safety devices, handrails, GFCIs, address egress issues.
- Final budget reconciliation and release holdbacks.
- If flipping: staging, professional photos, market prep, agent listing.
- If renting: set rent amount, tenant‑ready cleaning, marketing, screening process, lease and move‑in checklist.
Risk management and tips
- Prioritize structural and systems over cosmetics.
- Communicate weekly with contractors; keep decision log.
- Order long‑lead items (windows, appliances) early.
- Keep separate bank account or cost‑tracking line for project funds.
- Maintain buffer days for inspections and permit delays.
If you want, I can:
- Provide an editable budget spreadsheet template.
- Create a customized punch list for kitchen/bath/structural projects.
- Estimate a sample budget for a specific property (send address, size, age, condition)
Rehab Lend LLC provides nationwide direct hard money loans for real estate investors ready to scale. We specialize in fix and flip hard money loans and DSCR rental loans designed for speed, flexibility, and real‑world investing. Whether you’re renovating your next project or expanding your rental portfolio, our team delivers fast approvals, competitive terms, and reliable funding to keep your deals moving.