You’ve spent years collecting rent, and now you’re ready to sell your property. But there’s one problem: the tenants are still living there, and you’re not sure how to move forward.
The good news is that you have options. The challenge is choosing the right one for your goals, timeline, and financial situation.
As property owners ourselves, we’ve been in your shoes. This guide will help you understand your choices, from getting the highest price possible to selling quickly without the stress.
Your Options as a Landlord
1. Vacate the Tenants, Remodel, and Sell Retail
(Highest price, most work, longest timeline)
Selling traditionally on the retail market usually gives you the highest price. However, it also comes with the most requirements.
Buyers looking for a primary home expect it to be clean, updated, and move in ready. Very few want to deal with repairs or existing tenants.
To achieve the top price, you’ll need:
- No tenants when listing
- A clean, clutter free property
- Some level of updates or light renovations (see our article “How to Repair a Property to Sell”)
- Patience to wait at least 60 days for a buyer
Keep in mind: Evicting a tenant can be expensive in time and legal costs. If a formal eviction is necessary, this option may not be worth the delay or expense.
2. Vacate the Tenants and Sell As Is to an Investor
(Moderate price, faster sale, less hassle)
Every property has multiple “price tags.” The as is price reflects its current condition with tenants, while the retail price represents its full value once vacant, repaired, and updated.
Selling to an investor as is often means a lower price than retail, but it saves you time, effort, and months of waiting.
For more details, see our related guide “What’s Worth Remodeling Before Selling.”
3. Sell with Tenants in Place, As Is
(Fastest and simplest option)
Some investors are willing to buy rental properties with tenants still in place. While this usually brings the lowest sale price, it eliminates the stress of managing an empty home or coordinating evictions.
At Your Trusted Buyer, we often purchase tenant occupied homes at fair market prices. We value steady rental income and good tenants, not just vacant properties.
To find out what your property could sell for, call us at (888) 569 9890 for a free, no obligation cash offer.
What to Consider Before Deciding
Working with an agent versus selling directly
A good real estate agent might recommend selling to an investor, but remember that traditional listings come with commissions averaging $21,000 in your area. When you sell directly to a local buyer like us, you pay no commissions and no fees.
If you have time, consider selling retail
If you’re in no rush, you can vacate the property, update it, clean, and list it on the open market. Just be aware that the process can take several months depending on needed repairs and local demand.
Watch for hidden costs
Traditional sales include agent commissions and closing costs that reduce your net profit. At Your Trusted Buyer, we cover all closing costs, and you’ll never pay agent fees.
Get a Fair Offer Today
The best option depends on your situation, whether you have time to wait and remodel, or prefer a quick, stress free sale.
If you’re ready to see how much your property could sell for with or without tenants, call Your Trusted Buyer today at (888) 569 9890 for a fair, all cash offer with no hidden fees.
