How to Wow Realtors and Renters with Outstanding Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning

Amanda Pacheco

09 Jun 2025 — 5 min read

Want your cleaning business to shine? Focusing on move-in and move-out cleaning is a great way to do just that! People like realtors, landlords, and renters all want thorough cleaning so that a place feels brand new—either for the next folks moving in or to make a strong impression on potential buyers. If you want to really succeed in this area, your services should be complete, trustworthy, and customized to fit each client's needs perfectly. Let’s dive into how you can exceed expectations and keep clients coming back for more.

1. What Exactly is Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning?

Move-in and move-out cleaning is a step up from typical cleaning. It's all about giving the place a full-on scrub that leaves it looking flawless, either before someone moves in or after they move out. Renters want to step into a sparkling, fresh space, while landlords and realtors need the place spotless for new tenants or buyers. This means paying close attention to spots that often get missed in regular cleaning, like high-touch areas, hidden corners, and even inside appliances. Many landlords require this level of cleanliness for renters to get their deposits back.

2. Why Should You Offer Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning?

Jump into move-in and move-out cleaning to tap into a steady stream of business opportunities.

For Realtors and Landlords:

Homes need to look amazing during open houses to snag quick rentals or sales.
A super clean home can prevent costly repairs and avoid misunderstandings.

For Renters:

A squeaky clean house means peace of mind and reduces the chances of deposit disputes.
Renters often prefer services that meet lease or rental agreement cleanliness standards.

Your cleaning service can build strong, long-lasting partnerships with realtors and landlords, who might recommend your services to tenants or hire you for other properties.

3. Creating a Comprehensive Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning Checklist

Always use a detailed checklist to deliver top-notch service. Your checklist should cover every corner and crevice, allowing clients to clearly see the work done.

Kitchen

Appliances: Make sure ovens, fridges, microwaves, and dishwashers shine, especially greasy spots and crumbs in hard-to-reach areas.
Cabinets: Clean inside and out thoroughly.
Sinks and Counters: Give them a good sanitizing, and make sure there are no leftover food bits.
Floors: Sweep, mop, or vacuum, and remember to clean the baseboards, too!

Bathrooms

Toilets, Tubs, and Showers: Scrub these well until they sparkle.
Mirrors and Glass: Ensure they have a streak-free shine.
Cabinets: Clean the interiors and exteriors; a small air freshener inside adds an extra touch.
Floors: Sweep and mop, paying extra attention to the baseboards.

Living Rooms & Bedrooms

Dust Everything: This includes shelves, window sills, and baseboards.
Ceiling Fans: Dust and wipe the blades to avoid buildup.
Windows: Clean both the inside and outside.
Carpets and Floors: Vacuum the carpets, and offer carpet cleaning if needed.

Additional Areas

Entryways: Mop floors, clean doorknobs, and check light fixtures.
Walls and Doors: Wipe away any marks or scuffs.
Storage Spaces: Make sure garages, closets, and storage areas are debris-free.

4. Essential Cleaning Tools and Supplies You’ll Need

Having the right tools can make every job standout.

Basic Tools: Equip yourself with microfiber cloths, scrub brushes, sponges, a mop and bucket, plus a handy vacuum.
Supplies: Keep all-purpose cleaner, degreasers, glass and bathroom cleaners, and disinfectants at hand.
Specialty Equipment: Extendable dusters for high spots and steam cleaners for deep carpet and fabric cleaning are crucial.
Upsells: Offer air fresheners, natural, or eco-friendly products if the client requests.

5. Tips for Impressing Realtors and Renters

In a crowded market, small details can make your service stand out.

Be Thorough and Steady

Clients love it when you clean every detail, like the area behind appliances. Steadiness helps build their trust.

Go Above and Beyond

Little things, like organizing kitchen utensils or neatly folding towels, can leave a lasting impact.

Communicate Clearly and Courteously

Before Cleaning: Offer a clear estimate and outline the services included.
During Cleaning: Talk with clients about areas that might need more attention and offer your solutions.
After Cleaning: Do a walkthrough with your client to confirm their satisfaction.

Offer Quick Turnarounds

Realtors and landlords often have tight deadlines. Providing fast but quality services can bring in more repeat business.

6. Pricing Your Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning Services

Setting the right price is key, as these tasks take more time than standard cleaning.

Flat Rates: Handy for typical-sized homes, based on space (for instance, $150 for a 1-bedroom apartment).
Hourly Rates: Best for larger or tricky properties at $40–$60 per hour.

You can also include extra services like carpet cleaning for an added fee.

7. Promoting Your Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning Service

Good marketing is vital to attracting regular clients.

Form the Right Connections

Network with real estate agents who might refer clients your way. Consider offering them discounts or bonuses for any referrals.

Use Online Platforms to Your Advantage

Register your cleaning business on Google and Yelp for more exposure.
Post ‘before and after’ photos and customer reviews on social media.

Run Seasonal Promotions

Demand usually peaks during moving seasons. Discounts can attract new clients.

8. Overcoming Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning Challenges

This type of work isn't without its hurdles:

Dealing with Extremely Dirty Properties

Do a preliminary walkthrough and be honest about what's needed to get the job done.

Working with Tight Schedules

Flexibility and communicating availability are key.

Setting Worthwhile Expectations

Be honest about what services you offer and any extra costs.

9. Going That Extra Mile

Leave a Personal Touch

A thank-you card or branded air freshener can leave a memorable impact.

Expand Your Service Offerings

By adding services like carpet or window cleaning, you heighten customer satisfaction and increase potential earnings.

As a final thought, excelling in move-in/move-out cleaning can notably grow your business while delighting renters and landlords. Focus on precision, detail, and smart marketing to create solid relationships and a glowing reputation in the industry. Start impressing your clients today with your expert cleaning services!