Homebuyers are inundated with all sorts of different terms: fixer-upper, new construction, custom build, and so on. But one phrase usually stands out from the rest and catches their attention: move-in ready.
In this guide, we’ll cover the ins and outs of move-in ready homes, exploring their benefits, features, and how purchasing one can simplify your homebuying process.
What Is a Move-In Ready Home?
In many ways, a move-in ready home is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a property that’s completely finished and ready for you to start living in the moment you get the keys. It can be helpful to think of move-in ready homes as a finished product, versus a fixer-upper that comes with a disclaimer that some assembly is required.
Move-in ready homes are popular with homebuyers because they offer immediate comfort and convenience. All major home systems (electrical, HVAC, plumbing) are in good working order, and no immediate repairs or renovations are needed.
Quick move-in homes vs. move-in ready homes
These two terms are often used interchangeably. However, there can be subtle differences between a quick move-in home and a move-in ready one.
Quick move-in homes almost always refer to brand-new properties in communities where a builder has finished their work or is nearing completion.
On the other hand, “move-in ready” can describe a new build or existing property that has been meticulously maintained or recently renovated. Either way, its key characteristic is its immediate livability.
Misconceptions about move-in ready homes
It’s easy to make assumptions when you start exploring move-in ready homes, but let’s clear up a few common misconceptions.
- “Move-in ready homes won’t need maintenance, ever.” While move-in ready homes require no immediate work, move-in ready homes, like all homes, require ongoing maintenance. A pristine house today will still need routine care in the future. It just won’t demand a major overhaul or extensive repairs upfront.
- “Move-in ready homes are always more expensive.” While properties that need work might cost you less upfront, by buying a move-in ready home, you may save significantly on renovation costs, time, and stress. When you factor in the expenses and effort associated with updating a fixer-upper, purchasing a move-in ready home can often be more cost-effective.
- “You can’t personalize a move-in ready home.” You can absolutely personalize a move-in ready home through decor, furniture, paint, and landscaping.
- “Move-in ready homes always come fully furnished.” Unless explicitly stated in the home’s listing, a move-in ready home is a blank canvas. All the major work has been done, and it’s ready for your furniture, art, and personal touches. While some homebuilders may sell homes with furniture packages, this is an exception, not a hard and fast rule, but, usually, move in homes are not furnished.
- “All utilities are already connected to a move-in ready home.” While all major home systems are in place and ready to use, you will still be responsible for setting up utility service accounts in your name when you purchase a move-in ready home. You’ll just need to make a few phone calls to get things running.
What are the Key Benefits of Buying a Move-In Ready Home?
Homebuyers favor move-in ready homes for their convenience. Here’s how purchasing one can make your homebuying experience more enjoyable.
Move in right away
In a perfect world, your homebuying experience would probably look a little like this: You find a property you like, you sign a contract, you get the keys, and you start moving in that afternoon. Move-in ready homes get you as close to this scenario as possible. There’s no waiting for construction to finish or the need to live in a renovation zone. This promise of immediate occupancy can be a priceless commodity for many people.
No hidden costs or renovation surprises
If you’ve ever taken on a fixer-upper, you’re probably familiar with the fear that comes with facing an extensive renovation project. The best part about move-in ready homes?
Compared to an older home, there are fewer expensive surprises lurking behind the drywall, under the floorboards, or in the basement.
With a move-in ready home, you’re paying for a completed, fully-functional property. That means you’re largely protected from upfront financial nightmares and don’t have to lie awake at night worrying about a single surprise derailing your budget.
Reduced stress and effort
Let’s face it: for most of us, buying a house will always come with some stress. How could you possibly make such a big decision without a little second-guessing? A move-in ready home takes a lot of burden off your shoulders. All the hard work is already done, freeing you up to bypass the chaos and get to the more enjoyable parts of homeownership as quickly as possible.
Less maintenance to worry about
Since every component of a move-in ready home–from the roof to the HVAC system–is either new or recently updated, you’ll spend much less time worrying about major repairs after moving in. Plus, with many new builds, you also get a builder’s warranty (this can vary by builder and is not a guarantee).
A more predictable closing process
Move-in ready homes should really be called “peace-of-mind” homes. After all, one of the best things they provide is certainty. The closing process associated with a move-in ready home is almost always smooth and quick because the house is already built. Appraisers and inspectors can do their jobs immediately, keeping timelines on track. This predictability is huge and hard to find in real estate.
This means you’ll be able to confidently schedule movers, give notice at your current place, and plan the next phase of your life without the constant anxiety that your moving date might shift.
What Features Are Typically Included in a Move-In Ready Home?
While different homebuilders may have slightly different opinions of what “move-in ready” entails, you can generally expect a home that includes:
- Appliances: You can tell exactly which appliances are already installed and operational
- Completed bathrooms: Toilets, sinks, showers, bathtubs, and vanities
- Finished flooring: Carpet, hardwood, tile, or laminate installed throughout
- Painted walls: Freshly painted interiors in neutral or popular color palettes
- Working utilities: Electricity, plumbing, and HVAC systems are installed and fully operational
- Basic lighting fixtures and outlets: Installed and ready for immediate use
- Exterior finishes: Basic landscaping (grading and sometimes sod/shrubs), a finished driveway, and a completed roof
- No major structural repairs needed: The home has passed inspection or has been renovated recently to address any significant issues
Move-In Ready vs. New Construction: The Timeline Advantage
The one thing about a new construction home or even an extensive renovation is that you just don’t know how long it's going to take. Even your contractors may not know until they fully get started and understand the scope of work at hand. And getting the work completed is just one part of the equation. What about closing time or the financing process?
Mortgage and financing timelines
Compared to a new build or fixer-upper, securing a mortgage for a move-in ready home may be more straightforward. You will be applying for a standard residential mortgage on a fully completed asset, with which lenders are usually familiar.
Construction and project management time
With a move-in ready home, your project management time isn’t just minimal, it’s as minimal as it can be.
Closing process and move-in date
Closing dates sometimes fluctuate for new construction properties. However, when you buy a move-in ready home a lot of this guesswork is eliminated, since the home is already completed and inspected. In most cases, you can set a firm closing date and confidently plan your move.
Who Is the Ideal Homebuyer For a Move-In Ready Home?
Move-in ready homes boast universal appeal. Here’s how they’re perfect for specific types of homebuyers:
- First-time homebuyers: Simplicity and predictability are invaluable when buying your first house. The process is already overwhelming enough: you don’t want to also have to deal with shifting closing dates and construction delays.
- Relocating professionals: If you’re moving for a new job, you’ll want to settle in without delay, and move-in ready homes can be a lifesaver.
- Busy individuals or couples: Renovation projects can take a lot of time and effort, whether you are hands-on or not. If you have a demanding career, a move-in ready home can provide the clarity you need.
- Buyers on a fixed budget: Renovations can get costly fast, and surprises can quickly derail a budget. Move-in ready homes may be more expensive than a fixer-upper up front, but the absence of immediate repairs can help create long-term financial stability.
- Anyone adverse to DIY: If you aren’t keen on tackling home improvement projects yourself, a move-in ready home is your ideal match.
What Else Should Buyers Consider About Move-In Ready Homes?
While move-in ready homes are overflowing with benefits, there are a few other aspects you should consider to ensure one is the right fit for you.
The importance of a final walkthrough and inspection
When buying a home (whether it’s a fixer-upper, new build, private sale, or move-in ready), due diligence is essential. Always (with a capital “A”), conduct a final home inspection before closing. Even brand-new homes can have minor defects that the seller needs to address.
A final walkthrough before closing is also critical. You’ll want to ensure the seller has made all agreed-upon updates and the home is in the condition you’re paying for.
Understanding warranties and guarantees
Move-in ready homes usually come with some type of builder’s warranty. Make sure you understand what’s covered and what’s not before closing. These warranties typically cover structural defects and major home systems for a specified period of time. For existing move-in ready homes that have undergone recent renovations, ask about any transferable warranties on appliances or systems installed by the previous owner.
Move-In Ready Homes: Making the Right Choice For You
Convenience, predictability, and peace of mind are a powerful combination, and that’s exactly what a move-in ready home offers. By purchasing a home that’s ready from day one, you can circumvent the stress of renovations and enjoy a more predictable closing process. With all the guesswork removed, you can focus on settling in.
If a move-in ready home sounds like the right choice for you, start your search with Century Communities. As a leading homebuilder, we offer a wide assortment of move-in ready homes nationwide. Ready to start your search? Use our Find Your Home feature to view move-in ready and new construction properties near your search area.
Move-In Ready Homes FAQ
Is a move-in ready home more expensive?
Although the upfront costs of a move-in-ready home may be more expensive than those of a fixer-upper, purchasing a move-in ready home may result in significant savings in money and effort over time.
Can I make changes to a move-in ready home?
Yes, you can. While the major work is done with a move-in ready home, it’s your home. You're the new owners; you can personalize it however you like.
