The Cost of Professional Property Turnovers: What Hosts Need to Know

October 18, 2025 / by mbnbconciergecleaners.com

Whether you’re managing a vacation rental in the Poconos or a city apartment in Philly, professionally turning over a property between guests is more than just fluffing pillows and changing sheets. It’s a strategic operation that, when done right, keeps your property in top shape and your reviews glowing. Beyond appearances, it’s about meeting guest expectations set by platforms like Airbnb’s hosting standards. That level of consistency comes with costs, some predictable and others less so.

Below, we break down the essential fees involved in property turnover and why short-term rentals often carry additional expenses.

Core Turnover Fees: The Essentials

These are the baseline costs every host should expect when preparing a property for the next guest:

1. Cleaning Fees

- Standard Cleaning: Includes vacuuming, mopping, bathroom sanitation, kitchen wipe-down, and linen changes.

- Deep Cleaning: Often required monthly or after long stays. Includes baseboards, inside appliances, upholstery, and more.
- Typical range: $varies depending on property size and location.

2. Laundry Services

- Washing linens, towels, and sometimes duvets or mattress protectors.

- Outsourced laundry services may charge per pound or per item.
- Typical range: $20–$60 per turnover.

3. Restocking Essentials

- Toilet paper, paper towels, soap, shampoo, coffee, tea, etc.

- Sometimes the team has to purchase items needed to turnover efficiently.
- Typical range: $30–$100 per request.

4. Maintenance Checks

- Light bulb replacements, battery checks (smoke detectors, remotes), HVAC filter changes.

- Preventative maintenance avoids costly repairs later.
- Typical range: $25–$100 per visit.

Additional Fees for Short-Term Rentals: Why They Exist

Short-term rentals (STRs) operate at a higher frequency and with more variability than long-term leases. That means more wear and tear, and more surprises.

1. Last-Minute Turnover Fees

- Guests may book back-to-back, leaving little time for cleaning.

- Rush fees apply when cleaners must prioritize your property.
- Add-on: $25–$75

2. Damage or Excess Mess

- Broken items, stained linens, or trash left behind.

- Cleaning crews may charge extra for excessive mess or biohazards.
- Add-on: $50–$200 depending on severity

3. Seasonal or Peak Pricing

- During holidays or high season, vendors may raise rates.

- Availability is tighter, and demand drives up costs.
- Add-on: 10–30% premium

4. Pest Control or Odor Removal

- STRs are more prone to food waste, pet odors, or smoking violations.

- Specialized services may be needed between guests.
- Add-on: $100–$300 depending on service

5. Smart Tech & Automation Setup

- Hosts may invest in smart locks, noise monitors, or thermostats.

- These require occasional updates or troubleshooting.
- Add-on: $50–$150 per tech visit

How to Budget for Turnover Efficiently

Here’s a simple formula to help you estimate turnover costs:

Turnover Cost = Cleaning Fee + Laundry + Restocking + Maintenance + (Add-ons × Frequency)

Track your average turnover cost per guest and build it into your nightly rate. Many hosts also pass cleaning fees directly to guests, but it’s wise to keep them reasonable to stay competitive.

Final Thoughts: Efficiency Pays Off

Efficient turnover is about speed, consistency, quality, and guest satisfaction. Investing in reliable vendors, automating where possible, and anticipating seasonal changes can help you stay ahead of the curve.

Short-term rentals are dynamic, and while they offer great income potential, they also demand a higher level of operational finesse. Understanding the full scope of turnover fees ensures you’re not just hosting, but running a business. Partnering with professionals in this field can make every turnover smoother. Contact us for a customized quote or consultation.

Published: Oct 18, 2025 | Written by mbnbconciergecleaners.com