by Andrey Zhilin, seasonal turnover specialist
The summer renters have checked out. The air is just beginning to shift. And before long, the snowbirds — your long-term winter tenants — will be landing.
This isn’t the time for shortcuts. A deep, strategic fall cleaning ensures that your property feels fresh, safe, and elevated — not like it’s still wearing flip-flops and sunscreen from July.
So let’s walk through your vacation rental together. Here’s what I check — and what Sharky delivers — every fall before seasonal guests arrive.
Front Door & Entryway
- Wipe salt streaks and pollen from door frames
- Pressure wash walkway and steps if slippery or stained
- Check lighting (snowbirds arrive at dusk)
- Clean windows for first-impression clarity
First 30 seconds set the tone. Don’t let mildew or cobwebs greet your guests.
Living Room
- Vacuum under and behind all furniture (sand hides well)
- Shampoo or steam-clean sofas and rugs
- Dust electronics, ceiling fans, and lamp bases
- Reset furniture layout if things were shifted for summer
Guests stay for months. Details matter more now than ever.
Kitchen
- Degrease and disinfect cabinets, backsplash, and handles
- Clean fridge (inside shelves, rubber seals, and top)
- Check pantry for expired items or insect activity
- Scrub grout lines and check under sink for leaks or mildew
This isn’t just turnover cleaning — it’s pre-season reset.
Bathrooms
- Descale faucets and showerheads
- Remove all signs of mold or moisture buildup in grout
- Replace shower liners and check fans for proper airflow
- Sanitize toothbrush holders and behind the toilet
No snowbird wants to feel like they’re using a “shared” bathroom.
Bedrooms
- Launder all bedding — even if unused
- Dust behind headboards, under beds, and in drawers
- Vacuum and flip mattresses if applicable
- Make beds with crisp corners — it sets the tone
Clean is good. Polished is better.
Closets & Storage
- Clear clutter from shelves and hangers
- Leave a few empty drawers — guests bring more than suitcases
- Add moisture absorbers or fresh scent sachets
- Check for any insect traces or humidity issues
An open, clean closet feels like an invitation — not an afterthought.
Windows & HVAC
- Wipe down blinds and window tracks
- Replace AC filters — humidity builds up fast
- Clean air returns and ducts (especially post-summer)
- Add subtle scent diffusers for freshness, not cover-ups
Good airflow = happy long-term guests.
Outdoor Areas
- Clean outdoor furniture thoroughly — even cushions
- Power wash patios, pool decks, and screened areas
- Empty sheds, closets, and outdoor bins of beach gear
- Check grills and exterior outlets for safety and cleanliness
September is not “off-season” — it’s preparation season.
Final Thoughts from Andrey
This isn’t just about cleaning. It’s about setting a tone of care.
Snowbirds notice polish, precision, and quiet attention to detail.
At Sharky, we treat each fall cleaning like a welcome mat for your highest-value guests.
Want to retain your seasonal renters year after year? Start with a home that tells them:
“We’ve been expecting you.”
Read also: The Difference Between a Clean Home and a Guest-Ready Home
