Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Make Ready Technician

🎯 Role Definition

The Make Ready Technician, often referred to as a Turn Technician or Apartment Make Ready Specialist, is a cornerstone of the residential property management industry. This hands-on role is singularly focused on transforming vacant apartment units into pristine, fully functional homes for new residents. The technician is responsible for the entire turnover process, from initial inspection and repairs to final touches, ensuring each unit meets the property's high standards of quality and safety. This position is pivotal in creating a positive first impression for new residents and directly impacts occupancy rates, resident satisfaction, and the overall financial performance of the property.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

General Maintenance Assistant / Grounds-keeper
Construction Laborer
Apprentice in a skilled trade (e.g., carpentry, plumbing)

Advancement To:

Lead Maintenance Technician / Maintenance Supervisor
Assistant Maintenance Manager / Maintenance Manager
Facilities Manager

Lateral Moves:

Specialized Maintenance Technician (e.g., HVAC Specialist, Certified Plumber)
Property Inspector
Construction or Renovation Team Member

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Conduct thorough inspections of recently vacated apartment units, meticulously documenting all necessary repairs and improvements on a make-ready checklist.
Perform comprehensive interior and exterior painting tasks, including wall preparation, patching, priming, and applying finish coats to create a fresh and inviting atmosphere.
Execute drywall repairs, skillfully patching holes, repairing cracks, and texturing surfaces to match existing finishes for a seamless appearance.
Address all flooring needs, which may include professional carpet cleaning, repairing or replacing vinyl plank, tile, or hardwood, and ensuring all floor surfaces are secure and clean.
Install, troubleshoot, and repair a wide range of household appliances, such as refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers, garbage disposals, and washers/dryers.
Manage basic plumbing assignments, including fixing leaky faucets, clearing clogged drains, repairing or replacing toilets, and ensuring all plumbing fixtures operate efficiently.
Handle fundamental electrical work, such as replacing faulty outlets, light switches, ceiling fans, and light fixtures, while adhering to strict safety protocols.
Perform routine checks and preventative maintenance on HVAC systems, including changing filters, cleaning coils, and verifying proper heating and cooling operation.
Re-key all locks for the unit upon vacancy to ensure the safety and security of the incoming resident, and create new sets of keys as required.
Install or repair window coverings, such as blinds and curtains, and fix or replace damaged window screens, locks, and hardware.
Inspect, test, and replace batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to comply with safety regulations and ensure resident well-being.
Address cabinetry and countertop issues by repairing hinges, adjusting doors, and performing minor resurfacing or repairs to restore their appearance and functionality.
Ensure the complete "trash-out" of vacant units, removing all debris and items left behind by previous residents.
Perform final cleaning and detailed touch-ups, guaranteeing the unit is in immaculate, move-in-ready condition for the new resident's arrival.
Systematically work through the make-ready schedule to ensure all assigned units are completed efficiently and on time, minimizing vacancy loss.
Maintain a precise inventory of make-ready supplies, parts, and tools, and communicate needs to the Maintenance Supervisor to facilitate timely ordering.
Repair or replace various interior fixtures and hardware, including doorknobs, doorstops, closet tracks, and towel bars.
Perform caulking and sealing in kitchens and bathrooms to prevent water damage and maintain a clean, professional finish.
Ensure all work performed complies with company standards, as well as local, state, and federal building codes and safety regulations.
Communicate effectively with the Maintenance Supervisor and Leasing Office staff regarding the status of unit turnovers, potential delays, and final completion.

Secondary Functions

Assist the on-site maintenance team with general service requests or work orders during periods of high demand or when make-ready tasks are complete.
Participate in community-wide preventative maintenance programs, such as exterior light checks or gutter cleaning.
Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the maintenance shop, personal work vehicle, and all storage areas.
Support grounds-keeping efforts as needed, including snow removal, debris cleanup, and maintaining curb appeal around the property.
Provide exceptional customer service when interacting with current or prospective residents while on the property.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Appliance Repair: Proficiency in diagnosing and repairing common household appliances (refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, etc.).
Basic Plumbing: Knowledge of fixing leaks, clearing clogs, and replacing fixtures like faucets and toilets.
Basic Electrical: Competency in safely replacing outlets, switches, light fixtures, and ceiling fans.
HVAC Knowledge: Understanding of HVAC systems for basic maintenance, filter changes, and troubleshooting. EPA certification is a significant plus.
Carpentry & Hardware: Skills in repairing/installing doors, cabinets, shelving, locks, and other hardware.
Drywall & Painting: Expertise in patching, texturing, and painting to produce a high-quality, professional finish.
Flooring Installation & Repair: Experience with various flooring types, including carpet, vinyl, tile, and laminate.
Safety Protocol Adherence: Strong knowledge of workplace safety, including proper use of PPE and adherence to OSHA guidelines.
Tool & Equipment Operation: Skilled in the safe and effective use of hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic equipment.
Inventory Management: Ability to track parts and supplies to ensure necessary materials are on hand for turnovers.

Soft Skills

Time Management: Excellent ability to prioritize tasks and manage a demanding schedule to meet strict move-in deadlines.
Attention to Detail: A meticulous eye for detail to ensure every aspect of the unit is flawless before a resident moves in.
Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills to effectively diagnose issues and implement durable solutions.
Self-Motivation: A proactive and independent work ethic, with the ability to complete tasks with minimal supervision.
Communication: Clear and professional communication skills for coordinating with supervisors, leasing staff, and vendors.
Adaptability: Flexibility to handle unexpected issues and shifting priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Customer Focus: A commitment to quality and a desire to provide a positive living experience for residents.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED.

Preferred Education:

Certificate of completion from a recognized trade or vocational school.
HVAC (EPA Universal), CPO (Certified Pool Operator), or other relevant trade certifications.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Building Maintenance Technology
HVAC/R
Electrical or Plumbing Trades

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 1-3 years of direct experience in apartment maintenance, construction, or a related skilled trade field.

Preferred: 3+ years of experience, with at least 1 year specifically in a make-ready or apartment turnover role, demonstrating a proven track record of successfully preparing units for occupancy.