Move-in ready is a legal phrase used to describe homes that meet local municipal requirements for habitability.

Move-in ready homes generally exhibit three key traits:

1. Meet local safety, health, and building code standards
2. Require no major repairs or renovations
3. Are suitable for immediate occupancy

The legal definition of move-in ready differs from its practical definition. To a first-time home buyer, a "move-in ready house" is one that requires no repairs or renovations. Buyers may also refer to move-in ready homes as turnkey or plug-and-play homes. Move-in ready homes are the opposite of fixer-upper homes.

This article explains the legal and practical definitions of move-in ready homes. It also includes a flowchart to help you decide whether buying a move-in-ready home is right for you.

What Is a Move-In Ready Home?

The legal definition of a move-in ready home is one that is suitable for immediate occupancy and meets local safety, health, and building code standards.

In real estate marketing, "move-in ready" suggests that buyers can purchase a home and move in without needing to make repairs, maintenance, or improvements. Examples of move-in ready homes include newly-built or restored homes.

Buyers of move-in ready homes can expect the major systems, including electrical, plumbing, and HVAC, to be functional and certified by a licensed home inspector. The structure should be sound, with no known hazards or building code violations. A move-in ready home will be in working order, even if its paint colors or appliances are not updated to match your preferences.

Move-in ready homes are popular because buyers can typically move in immediately. They are also eligible for financing through first-time buyer loans, including conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans. Buying a turnkey home reduces stress and can lower the cost of purchasing your first home.

Why Buy A Move-In Ready Home?

Buying a move-in ready home is often more convenient and allows you to settle into your new home faster than with other options, such as fixer-uppers or new construction.

Time savings

Move-in ready homes do not require major repairs or upgrades, allowing buyers to take possession immediately after closing. These homes are popular with buyers facing time constraints, such as those breaking a lease, moving out of their parents' home, or relocating from out of state.

Less stress

Buying a move-in ready home eliminates the stress of managing repairs and living through construction. Buyers can move in and decorate immediately without needing to coordinate with contractors.

Predictable costs

While move-in ready homes may cost more than fixer-uppers, there are no unexpected renovation costs. This makes it easier for buyers to stick to a budget.

Peace of mind

Knowing that your home is safe, structurally sound, and compliant with local building codes provides emotional and financial security that fixer-uppers cannot offer.

Less maintenance

Move-in ready homes often have newer systems, appliances, and finishes, which means fewer maintenance concerns in the first few years of ownership. This can help make homeownership more affordable and reduce financial stress.

The 8 Features of a Move-In Ready Home

When you buy a move-in ready home, you're ensuring that your new home is safe, secure, and structurally sound. Move-in ready homes meet the following eight standards:

1. Working plumbing and pipes

Running water is essential. The drains of a move-in ready home will be clean and clear, and faucets will provide clean water.

2. Modern electrical outlets and wiring

Move-in ready homes meet the National Electrical Code. Each room will have working outlets, properly spaced, and not near water sources.

3. Leak-proof roof and exterior

The roof of a move-in ready home will be free from damage, and the gutters and drainage systems will be intact. The interior will show no signs of water damage from roofing issues. For homes with siding, all siding will be in good condition. For brick homes, all tuckpointing will be up-to-date.

4. Major appliances included

Move-in ready homes include essential appliances such as refrigerators, stoves, and laundry machines. These appliances may not be energy-efficient and could be near their replacement age.

5. Level flooring and walls

The floors and walls of a move-in ready home will be level and free from damage. Doors and windows will operate as expected, with no gaps or warping.

6. Secure locks on windows and doors

Windows and doors will have functional locking mechanisms, with additional security features on first-floor windows. Exterior doors will have double-locking mechanisms.

7. Tuned heating and cooling systems

The heating and cooling systems will be well-maintained, with clean filters and functional components.

8. The home is habitable

A move-in ready home will have a certificate of occupancy and meet local building codes.

The 5 Types of Move-In Ready Homes

"Move-in ready" refers to homes that are immediately livable after purchase. To qualify as move-in ready, a home must be safe, structurally sound, and compliant with local building codes. These homes come in a variety of styles and ages. Here are five types of move-in ready homes:

New construction homes

Brand-new, often built in planned communities, with no prior residents. They feature modern design and are energy-efficient. New construction homes can be customized by buyers and typically take up to a year to complete.

Model homes

Display homes built by developers to showcase their work. They often include high-end finishes and appliances. Model homes are move-in ready and may be sold at a discount compared to similar homes.

Renovated homes

Updated for resale and may feature new kitchens, bathrooms, or roofing. They are often move-in ready and energy-efficient.

Flipped homes

Renovated and resold as move-in ready. Buyers should inspect flipped homes carefully to ensure quality renovations. As with all homes, have a licensed home inspector evaluate a flipped home before purchase.

Condominiums and townhomes

Not all condominiums and townhomes are move-in ready. However, well-maintained units with active HOAs can be nearly move-in ready, as common areas are maintained.

Which Should I Buy: New Construction, Move-In Ready, or Fixer-Upper?

(Flowchart or further guidance would go here if available.)