What Is A Turnkey Home?

Anna Choi
Anna Choi
Growth Marketer
Jan 5, 2021
What Is A Turnkey Home?

The concept of turnkey homes, especially when getting your house ready to sell, is a must in today's real estate market, appealing to a wide range of buyers and investors. Characterized by their readiness for immediate occupancy, turnkey homes represent a significant shift from traditional home-buying experiences. But what does ‘turnkey mean’?

What Does 'Turnkey' Mean? 

Originating from the literal turn of a key to open a door, 'turnkey' in real estate implies a property ready for immediate use. This term has evolved to encompass not just the structural readiness of a property but also its furnishing and move-in readiness. In the broader sense, a turnkey property is one where the buyer or tenant can move in without any significant work required – be it construction, renovation, or large-scale repairs. This concept has become increasingly relevant in a world where convenience and time-saving are highly valued.

What is a Turnkey Property? 

A turnkey property, be it a residential home, apartment, or even a commercial space, is typically a fully renovated or newly constructed unit. These properties stand out in the real estate market for their immediate livability. The renovations in a turnkey home can include major systems like plumbing, electrical, HVAC, as well as aesthetic updates such as new flooring, paint, and modern appliances.

Turnkey in the Context of Buying a House 

When purchasing a house, the term 'turnkey' is often thrown around. It suggests a property that is not only structurally sound but also aesthetically pleasing and fully functional. This means the buyer can avoid the often lengthy and unpredictable process of renovating a home. Turnkey homes are especially appealing to those who may not have the expertise, resources, or inclination to undertake significant home improvement projects themselves. 

Benefits of Turnkey Homes 

The advantages of turnkey homes are numerous:

  • Convenience: They offer an immediate living solution without the hassle of renovations or repairs.
  • Time-Saving: For those with busy lifestyles or urgent relocation needs, turnkey homes eliminate the waiting period associated with home improvement.
  • Predictable Costs: Renovations often come with hidden or unexpected expenses. Turnkey homes, with their upfront pricing, offer a clearer financial picture.
  • Modern Amenities: Many turnkey properties feature modern amenities and up-to-date designs, making them appealing to contemporary tastes.
  • Investment Potential: These homes can be excellent investment opportunities, as they're often located in desirable areas and can command higher rental rates or resale values.

How to Make Your Home Turnkey 

Transforming a property into a turnkey home involves several key steps:

  • Investing in Touch-Ups: Simple updates like fresh paint, new fixtures, or updated landscaping can significantly enhance a property's appeal.
  • Budgeting: It's crucial to budget effectively for renovations, ensuring the upgrades are financially sensible and add real value to the property.
  • Taking Advantage of Experts: Leveraging the expertise of contractors, interior designers, and real estate professionals can ensure that renovations are done efficiently and effectively, adhering to current market trends and standards.

Ideal Candidates for Turnkey Properties 

Turnkey properties are particularly suited to:

  • Those Who Aren’t Interested in Home Improvement: Individuals who prefer convenience or lack the skills for DIY projects find great value in turnkey homes.
  • Those Looking for an Investment Property: Investors seeking properties with immediate rental potential or resale value often opt for turnkey options.

How to Find a Turnkey Home 

Finding a turnkey home involves:

  • For Investors: Researching the market for properties in high-demand areas with growth potential.
  • For Homeowners: Consulting with real estate agents who specialize in turnkey properties and using online listings that specifically advertise such homes.

Key Takeaway

Turnkey homes offer a practical, convenient solution for many. They cater to a broad spectrum of buyers and investors, providing a ready-to-live-in environment that aligns with contemporary lifestyles and preferences.

Share this post
Anna Choi
Anna Choi
Growth Marketer
Jan 5, 2021

Anna Choi is a New York transplant. A full-stack growth marketer with deep experience in managing and executing integrated marketing strategies. Her ability to project manage and execute quickly across any marketing channel comes in second only to her talent as being one of the most organized humans alive.

Unlocking equity is hard,
we've got your back.

See what's possible, it's your real estate.

Discuss home