Turnkey renovation in Georgia — what to expect and how to save 🛠️
Turnkey renovation promises a ready-to-use apartment or house with minimal involvement from the buyer. The reality depends on the contractor and the written agreement. This guide explains typical inclusions, common surprises, and practical tips to avoid overpaying.
Typical elements of a turnkey package ✅
- Preparation: demolition of old finishes, removal of debris and surface preparation.
- Structural and rough works: floor screed, wall leveling, electrical and plumbing rough-ins.
- Finishing works: tiling, painting, installation of floors, sanitary fixtures and interior doors.
- Final setup: kitchen installation, connection of appliances (if specified), cleaning after works.
- Warranty period for defects and minor adjustments.
Note: The exact scope varies. Always request a detailed, itemized specification of works and materials.
Often excluded items to watch for ❗
- Furniture and high-end appliances unless specified.
- Major layout changes and official permits (these are usually separate projects).
- Custom-made items, designer services or imported materials unless agreed.
How not to overpay — practical rules 💡
- Ask for an itemized estimate that separates labor, materials, and contractor margin.
- Get at least three offers and compare the scope, timelines, and warranties — not just the bottom line.
- Put materials, brands and classes into the contract to avoid substitutions.
- Keep a contingency fund for unforeseen issues discovered after demolition.
- Consider buying key finish materials yourself to reduce contractor mark-ups.
- Check previous projects and client references to assess reliability.
Typical disputes and quick fixes ⚖️
- Unplanned extra works after the start: fix by requiring written change orders and cost approvals.
- Material discrepancies: require samples or exact model numbers in the contract.
- Delays: attach milestone payments to stages and include penalties for missed deadlines.
Contract and payments — essential clauses 📝
- Detailed scope with units and prices.
- Start and end dates with milestone checkpoints.
- Acceptance procedure, signed acts for completed stages and warranty terms.
- Change order process and payment schedule.
- Dispute resolution and defect rectification terms.
Supervision and quality control 🔍
- Appoint a responsible person on your side or hire an independent site manager.
- Take photos or videos at each major stage.
- Approve and sign off on each stage before releasing the next payment.
Local specifics in Georgia 🇬🇪
- Material availability and prices vary by city and season. In resort towns, demand can push up contractor margins.
- Some contractors offer turnkey packages aimed at short-term rental investors — convenient but verify materials and maintenance needs.
- Verbal guarantees are common; insist on written warranty terms in your contract.
For investors vs long-term residents 🔎
- Buyers who plan to live in the property: prioritize comfort, durability and energy efficiency.
- Investors planning to rent out: prefer robust, low-maintenance finishes and neutral interiors to minimize vacancy time.
Cost control — a step-by-step approach 📋
- Define the desired outcome and minimum quality standard.
- Request several preliminary estimates.
- Finalize design and material selection.
- Sign a detailed contract with milestones and retention clauses.
- Monitor works, document progress and accept by signed acts.
If you're searching for property in Georgia and need guidance on renovation costs or trusted contractors, BuyHome specialists can assess the apartment and recommend reliable teams. Start your property search: https://buyhome.ge/en/search or browse apartments: https://buyhome.ge/en/apartments
Contact us — we'll help you choose a property and arrange renovation without unnecessary risks or extra costs. 🤝