How to Sell a House with Tenants in Florida: 5 Proven Options

Jan 22

How to Sell a Property with Tenants in Florida: A Complete Guide

Selling a property with tenants adds complexity to the home-selling process, but it’s entirely legal and manageable in Florida. With the right knowledge of Florida’s tenant laws and effective communication, you can ensure a smooth transition for everyone involved. Whether you’re dealing with a month-to-month lease or a long-term agreement, this guide will help you navigate the process.

Options for Selling a Property with Tenants

1. Offer Financial Incentives

If you need the property vacated quickly, offering a “cash for keys” agreement can encourage tenants to move out before their lease ends. This approach is empathetic and often faster than eviction, fostering goodwill while minimizing disruptions.

2. Sell to a Buyer Who’ll Take Possession After the Lease Expires

If timing isn’t critical, you can find a buyer willing to wait until the tenant’s lease ends. This allows for a smooth transition and ensures the tenant’s rights are respected.

3. Sell to an Investor

Investors often prefer tenant-occupied properties as they offer immediate rental income. Highlighting responsible tenants with timely payments can increase your property’s appeal.

4. Wait Until the Lease Expires

If you’re not in a hurry, waiting until the lease ends simplifies the sale process. It allows you to make repairs, stage the property, and attract more potential buyers.

5. Provide Notice for Month-to-Month Tenants

In Florida, landlords must give 15 days’ written notice to end a month-to-month lease. This approach ensures compliance with state laws while expediting the sale process.

Legal Grounds for Evicting a Tenant

Florida law specifies circumstances under which landlords can evict tenants. Always consult legal experts to ensure compliance. Common grounds include:

Nonpayment of Rent: Issue a three-day written notice per Florida Statute §83.56(3).
Lease Violations: Provide a seven-day notice to correct violations (e.g., unauthorized pets or property damage).
Repeated Lease Violations: A seven-day notice to terminate tenancy applies if the tenant repeatedly violates the lease.
Illegal Activity: Immediate termination with a seven-day notice is allowed for illegal use of the property.
Holdover Tenancy: If the lease has expired and the tenant remains, file for eviction under Florida Statute §83.58.

Communicating with Tenants During a Sale

Clear, respectful communication is crucial when selling a property with tenants. Best practices include:

Provide Written Notices: Include the date, tenant’s name, reason for notice, and details about showings.
Respect Privacy: Give tenants at least 12 hours’ notice before entering the property for showings.
Maintain Property Standards: Ensure the property remains well-maintained throughout the sale process.
Address Concerns: Be transparent and open to questions to ease tenant anxieties.

Tenant Rights During a Sale

Tenants have legal protections during the sale process, including:

Lease Continuation: The new owner must honor existing lease terms unless specified otherwise.
Notice of Entry: Tenants can refuse entry if landlords fail to provide proper notice.
Right to Purchase: Some leases may include a Right of First Refusal (ROFR), giving tenants the option to buy the property before external offers are accepted.

Pros and Cons of Selling with Tenants

Selling with Tenants

Pros:

Steady rental income during the sale.
Attracts investors seeking immediate income.
No need to stage or prepare an empty property.

Cons:

Limited buyer pool (most traditional buyers prefer tenant-free homes).
Potential challenges coordinating showings.
Tenants may not maintain the property in a show-ready condition.

Selling After Tenants Move Out

Pros:

Easier to coordinate showings and maintenance.
Appeals to a broader buyer pool, including traditional buyers.

Cons:

Loss of rental income during the sale process.
Delays if waiting for lease expiration.

Why Sell to a Cash Buyer?

Selling to a cash buyer like Trivanci LLC simplifies the process. We:

Close Quickly: Avoid delays with fast cash offers.
Buy As-Is: No need for repairs or staging.
Honor Leases: We respect tenant rights and lease agreements.

Final Thoughts

Selling a property with tenants doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding Florida’s tenant laws, maintaining open communication, and choosing the right selling method, you can navigate the process smoothly. Whether you’re looking for a quick sale or exploring your options, Trivanci LLC is here to help. Contact us today for a free, no-pressure quote!

Isaiah Toering