Selling an Unwanted Rental Property in Florida
Selling an Unwanted Rental Property in Florida can bring financial opportunity, reduce stress and allow intentional and unintentional the ability to move on. Owning a rental property in Florida can be a great investment — until it isn’t.
If your rental has become more stressful than profitable, selling an unwanted rental property in Florida may be the smartest move.
Many landlords reach a point where rising maintenance costs, tenant issues, insurance increases, or changing life circumstances make holding the property no longer worthwhile. The good news is that you can sell a rental property in Florida even if it has tenants, deferred maintenance, or financial complications.
This guide walks through your options and what to expect when selling an unwanted rental property.
Common Reasons Landlords Sell Unwanted Rental Properties
Rental properties often become “unwanted” due to circumstances outside the owner’s control, including:
- Problem or non-paying tenants
- Property damage or deferred maintenance
- Rising insurance, taxes, or HOA fees
- Out-of-state ownership or absentee landlord fatigue
- Inherited rental property
- Negative cash flow
- Burnout from self-managing
- Upcoming major repairs
- Changes in financial goals or retirement plans
And unintentional landlord. This is where someone couldn’t sell or didn’t want to sell and their next best plan was to rent their house out. Many times people figure quickly there is a lot more to being a landlord than just collecting “mail box money.” That said we had a gentleman by the name Mr. Hardy. He was upside down on his mortgage so he ended up leasing it out. And he leased it himself and didn’t do credit, background or employment checks on the tenants. This house was in Lehigh Acres Fl. They paid the first month’s rent and that was it. When we showed up they were 6 months in without payment. And destroying the house. So sad… We took the property as is with squatter. We went through the eviction process and took on the disaster clean up and repair process.
If you’re dealing with one or more of these, you’re not alone…
Can You Sell a Rental Property With Tenants in Florida?
Yes. Florida law allows you to sell a rental property with tenants still in place.
Important considerations include:
- Existing leases transfer to the new owner
- Tenants generally retain their rights
- Buyers must honor lease terms unless negotiated otherwise
- Showings may require proper notice
Many traditional buyers avoid tenant-occupied properties, but investors and cash buyers often prefer them, especially if rent is being paid.
Selling an Unwanted Rental Property As-Is
One of the biggest advantages for landlords is the ability to sell as-is.
Selling as-is means:
- No repairs or renovations
- No cleaning or tenant turnover required
- No inspections requested by lenders
- Faster closing timelines
This option is especially helpful if the property has:
- Tenant damage
- Deferred maintenance
- Code violations
- Aging systems (roof, HVAC, plumbing)
What About Taxes When Selling a Rental Property in Florida?
Selling a rental property can involve:
- Capital gains tax
- Depreciation recapture
- Potential 1031 exchange considerations
Every situation is different. Many landlords sell because the long-term tax impact of holding no longer makes sense. Understanding your numbers ahead of time helps you choose the right exit strategy.
Traditional Sale vs Direct Sale for Rental Properties
Traditional Sale (MLS)
- May require vacant possession
- Repairs and updates often needed
- Longer timelines
- Financing contingencies
- Showings and inspections
Direct Sale to a Buyer
- Sell with tenants in place
- No repairs required
- No commissions
- Faster closing
- Fewer contingencies
For many landlords, a direct sale offers clarity, speed, and less stress.
Selling an Unwanted Rental Property With Problem Tenants
Problem tenants are one of the most common reasons landlords sell.
This can include:
- Late or missed rent
- Lease violations
- Property damage
- Refusal to allow access
- Eviction delays
Selling the property transfers management responsibility to the buyer, allowing you to exit without going through a prolonged eviction process.
We Help Landlords Sell Rental Properties Across Florida
Creating Real Estate Solutions works with landlords throughout Florida who are ready to move on from unwanted rental properties.
We buy:
- Single-family rentals
- Tenant-occupied properties
- Vacant rentals
- Out-of-state owned rentals
- Inherited rental properties
- Properties needing repairs
If you don’t see your county listed, reach out anyway — we buy rental properties throughout most areas of Florida.
Talk With a Professional Before Making a Decision
Every rental property situation is unique. Whether you’re dealing with tenants, repairs, or simply want out, understanding your options puts you in control.
If you’re considering selling an unwanted rental property in Florida, we’re happy to walk through your situation and help you understand the best path forward.