The Truth About ‘Turnkey’ Homes - The Koch Garpstas Realty Group

The term “turnkey home” gets thrown around a lot in real estate listings—but what does it really mean?

Many buyers see the word and assume it means the home is completely move-in ready, with no repairs, updates, or surprises needed.

But here’s the truth: “turnkey” doesn’t always mean perfect.

What “Turnkey” Really Means

In real estate, a “turnkey” property typically means the home is:

Clean, functional, and ready to occupy right away
Recently updated or renovated to modern standards
Not in need of major repairs or maintenance before moving in

However, the definition can vary greatly depending on the seller, the agent, or even the market. What one person considers “move-in ready,” another might see as “needs a lot of work.”

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The Hidden Reality Behind “Turnkey”

A home labeled “turnkey” might still come with:

Outdated systems (like HVAC, roof, or plumbing) that haven’t been inspected
Cosmetic upgrades hiding deeper issues
DIY renovations that look good on the surface but weren’t done professionally

That’s why it’s essential for buyers to look beyond the label. Even a home marketed as “turnkey” deserves a thorough home inspection—and a realistic evaluation of what “ready to move in” truly means to you.

How to Evaluate a “Turnkey” Listing

Before falling in love with the word, take a closer look at:

Inspection reports or recent upgrades (ask for documentation!)
The age of key systems like roof, HVAC, and water heater
Quality of finishes and craftsmanship—do the updates look professionally done?
Neighborhood comparables—are you paying a premium just for the label?

Your agent can help you spot whether a home is genuinely updated or just marketed that way.

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The Bottom Line

“Turnkey” is more of a marketing term than a guarantee. While some homes truly are move-in ready, others just wear the label to attract attention.

A little due diligence can help you avoid paying a premium for a home that still needs work once you move in.

Buying a home?

Partner with a local real estate professional who can help you look past buzzwords, identify real value, and make sure your next home is truly ready for you to turn the key.