Reducing Vacancy Costs: How Strategic Property Maintenance Lowers Days on Market for SFR & REO Properties

For Single Family Rental (SFR) companies, property management firms, REO companies, and mortgage default servicers, prolonged property vacancies are a major challenge. Every day a property sits empty represents lost revenue, increased risk of deterioration, and mounting carrying costs. However, strategic property maintenance and preservation efforts can significantly reduce days on market (DOM), ensuring faster lease-ups and smoother sales.

The Cost of a Vacant Property

Vacant properties are more than just an inconvenience—they come with steep financial consequences. Key risks include:

  • Lost Rental Income: Every month a property remains unoccupied translates into direct revenue loss.

  • Increased Risk of Damage & Vandalism: Unattended homes are vulnerable to break-ins, vandalism, and weather-related deterioration. 

  • Higher Maintenance & Repair Costs: Deferred maintenance can lead to costly repairs that could have been avoided. 

  • Code Violations & Fines: Local municipalities often impose fines for overgrown lawns, debris accumulation, and unsecured pools. 

  • Insurance & Carrying Costs: Higher insurance premiums for vacant properties and ongoing utility expenses add up quickly.

Critical Services to Reduce Days on Market

Maintaining a property in market-ready condition is essential for reducing vacancy periods. A comprehensive maintenance approach includes:

  1. Curb Appeal Enhancements

    Regular lawn maintenance and landscaping

    Debris and junk removal 

    Pressure washing and exterior cleaning 

    Seasonal yard care to ensure year-round appeal

  2. Interior Readiness

    Professional cleaning services

    Rental turns, including painting, repairs, and fixture replacements

    Flooring and carpet cleaning or replacement

    Ensuring HVAC systems are operational for comfortable showings

  3. Inspection & Compliance

    Property inspections to identify maintenance needs early 

    Winterization services to protect against freezing temperatures 

    Securing doors, windows, and pools to prevent unauthorized entry

  4. Pool Maintenance & Compliance

    Regular cleaning and chemical balancing for functional pools

    Pool securing and winterization to meet local compliance standards 

    How a Proactive Maintenance Partner Saves Time & Money


Working with a professional property services provider like Reliance Property Services ensures efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Here’s how:

  • Faster Lease-Ups for SFRs: Well-maintained homes attract tenants more quickly, reducing vacancy periods.

  •  Increased Property Value for REO Assets: Proper maintenance enhances curb appeal and buyer confidence, expediting sales.

  •  Avoiding Code Violations: Staying ahead of local regulations prevents fines and ensures compliance.

  •  Streamlined Vendor Management: Partnering with a single nationwide service provider simplifies property upkeep.


Why Choose Reliance Property Services?

Reliance Property Services offers a full suite of property maintenance and preservation solutions nationwide. Our team specializes in:

Lawn care and landscaping

Rental turns and cleaning services 

Inspections and winterizations 

Pool maintenance and securing 

Debris removal

General property preservation

By proactively maintaining your properties, we help you minimize vacancy costs, protect your assets, and maximize profitability.

Get Started Today

Don’t let prolonged vacancies erode your profits. Contact Reliance Property Services today to learn how our strategic maintenance solutions can help you reduce days on market and enhance your property’s value.

Visit us at www.reliancepropservices.com or call us to schedule a consultation!


For more tips on maintaining your properties, visit our blog at Reliance Property Services, where we offer expert advice tailored to property owners, investors and property managers.


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