If you’re searching for a new home, it’s important to be aware of the different terminology used for property conditions. Knowing the details of a property can help you avoid extra costs and frustration after purchase. “Move-in ready” is one term you will probably encounter in the housing market. Here is an explanation of what “move-in ready” actually means so you know what to expect:
Major Systems Are Up to Date
A home that’s designated “move-in ready” has all of its major systems in good working order. Electrical work should be up to date and include safe and functional wall outlets. Plumbing might not be modern, but it is trustworthy and has a reasonable amount of lifespan remaining.
You can expect the roof and windows to be in solid condition even if not recently replaced. A move-in ready house should have a roof with at least several decades of workable lifespan left. Windows should not leak air or moisture but might still require upgrades to more efficient versions.
Functional, Not Pristine
One key to understanding what “move-in ready” really means is to know that the home will be functional but not perfect. Kitchens, for example, are not required to have modern appliances or sparkling new countertops to be “move-in ready.” Bathrooms are similar in that the fixtures should be clean and all the drains should be unclogged. However, the fixtures and cosmetic elements of the bathroom might still look dated and need an upgrade. As long as they are functioning normally for regular use, it’s “move-in ready.”
You Might Need to Paint
The aesthetic of a home can be enough to make or break a decision. However, it’s important to know that many cosmetic features—both interior and exterior—are considered move-in ready regardless of personal taste. For example, rooms with boldly painted walls, wallpaper or paneling might not be ideal from an aesthetic standpoint, but these features will not prevent you from moving in to the home.
Keep in mind that once you buy a home, you can make whatever design decisions you wish. If the move-in ready house you’re planning to buy has an unpleasant paint color or dated paneling, you may simply need to make those changes priority.
About the Author
Kyung Kim
Hi, I'm Kyung Kim. I immigrated from South Korea to the United States in 1968 when I was 7 years old. I have seen my mom struggle with the English language and work hard to raise her four kids by herself. Still to this day, I don't know how she pulled it off, but she bought her first home in 1979 for $70,000 and because of that decision, she was able to live without worrying about her financial future. I want that for everyone, to feel the pride of home ownership and to build their financial wealth using real estate as part of their financial portfolio. I feel so blessed to play a small role in helping others reach this goal.
I live in Beaverton with my husband, Richard. My mom, who lived with us for several years, passed away in our home in February 2022. Her first home purchase in 1979 made it possible for her to live to the very end, without worrying about her finances. As of August 2022 with a little downpayment assistance, our four children own their own homes. Being in real estate, I quickly realized that if they didn't buy now, they may be priced out of the market in the future. Whether that would have been the case, we will never know, but what we do know is that they are all realizing some good, healthy appreciation in their home values.
As passionate as I am about people owning their homes, I'm also passionate about giving back to our community. I support Compassion First, a non-profit organization that provides aftercare for sex trafficked girls in Indonesia. My husband and I also feel called to financially support social injustice organizations.
I'd love to assist you. Whether you're in the research phase at the beginning of your real estate search or you know exactly what you're looking for, you'll benefit from having a real estate professional by your side. I'd be honored to put my real estate experience to work for you.
