“Guides based on real multifamily renovation projects completed throughout the Seattle area.”
SEATTLE UNIT TURNOVER PRICING GUIDE (2026):
What It Costs to Renovate a Rental Unit
Turnover costs vary based on condition, scope, and timeline requirements. The ranges below reflect common Seattle multifamily projects.
🔹 BASIC TURN (MAKE-READY)
Typical Timeline: 2–4 days
Ideal For: units in good condition
Scope
• paint touch-ups
• minor repairs
• cleaning & haul away
• fixture replacements
Typical Cost
👉 $1,200 – $2,500 per unit
🔹 STANDARD TURNOVER REFRESH
Timeline: 5–10 days
Ideal For: worn units needing cosmetic upgrades
Scope
• full interior paint
• new LVP flooring
• lighting & plumbing fixtures
• minor cabinet repairs
• appliance replacement (if needed)
Typical Cost
👉 $4,000 – $8,500
🔹 KITCHEN REFRESH (NOT FULL REMODEL)
Includes
• new countertops
• cabinet painting or refacing
• new sink & faucet
• backsplash
• hardware upgrades
Typical Cost
👉 $3,500 – $7,500
🔹 FULL KITCHEN REPLACEMENT
Includes
• new cabinets
• quartz countertops
• backsplash
• sink & fixtures
• appliance install
Typical Cost
👉 $9,000 – $16,000
🔹 BATHROOM UPGRADE
Includes
• new vanity & fixtures
• tub surround or tile
• flooring
• lighting & mirror
Typical Cost
👉 $3,000 – $7,000
🔹 FLOORING REPLACEMENT
• LVP flooring: $6 – $9 / sq ft installed
• Carpet replacement: $3 – $5 / sq ft
• Tile (wet areas): $12 – $20 / sq ft
🔹 FULL UNIT RENOVATION
Timeline: 2–4 weeks
Includes
• kitchen & bath upgrades
• flooring
• paint
• lighting & fixtures
👉 $12,000 – $28,000+
💡 How to Reduce Turnover Costs
✔ standardize finishes
✔ use durable materials
✔ schedule bulk renovations
✔ address maintenance early
✔ keep spare fixtures & hardware
BEST MATERIALS FOR RENTAL PROPERTIES
Durable, Cost-Effective Choices That Reduce Future Repairs
Choosing the right materials can reduce maintenance calls and extend replacement cycles.
🔹 FLOORING
⭐ Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) — BEST OVERALL
✔ waterproof
✔ scratch resistant
✔ pet friendly
✔ cost effective
Recommended thickness: 5–8mm with wear layer 12mil+
Carpet (Bedrooms Only)
✔ budget friendly
✔ quieter for upper floors
Use commercial-grade carpet tiles for easy replacement.
Tile (Bathrooms & Entry Areas)
✔ water resistant
✔ long lifespan
✔ easy cleaning
Use porcelain for durability.
🔹 CABINETS
Thermofoil / MDF Shaker
✔ cost effective
✔ consistent finish
✔ easy replacement
Plywood Box Cabinets
✔ stronger
✔ better for long-term hold properties
🔹 COUNTERTOPS
Quartz (Best Value Long-Term)
✔ durable
✔ stain resistant
✔ modern appeal
✔ no maintenance
Laminate (Budget Option)
✔ economical
✔ quick replacement
🔹 PAINT
Use washable satin or eggshell finishes.
Recommended Colors
✔ warm white
✔ soft gray
✔ greige tones
These appeal to most renters.
🔹 FIXTURES & HARDWARE
✔ brushed nickel or matte black
✔ simple modern styles
✔ avoid trendy finishes
ANNUAL MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST FOR MULTIFAMILY BUILDINGS
Proactive maintenance prevents costly emergency repairs.
Exterior
✔ siding & trim inspection
✔ caulking & sealant review
✔ balcony & railing safety check
✔ drainage & gutter cleaning
Interior
✔ smoke & CO detectors
✔ plumbing leak inspection
✔ GFCI outlet testing
✔ ventilation & exhaust fans
Seasonal
✔ weatherproofing before winter
✔ roof & flashing inspections
✔ pressure washing & moss prevention
COMMON SEATTLE CODE COMPLIANCE ISSUES
Avoid violations and liability risks.
✔ handrails & guardrails secure
✔ smoke & CO detectors installed & working
✔ proper egress from bedrooms
✔ GFCI protection near water sources
✔ weatherproof exterior penetrations
✔ trip hazards & unsafe walkways
WHY PROPERTY MANAGERS WORK WITH UNITED GREEN BUILDERS
✔ fast unit turnover scheduling
✔ experience with occupied buildings
✔ code compliance & safety repairs
✔ after-hours & emergency work
✔ consistent quality across multiple units