When tenants vacate a rental property, it’s decision time for owners. You’re faced with 2 choices… find a new renter or sell. This is where the expertise of a seasoned real estate agent becomes invaluable. An experienced agent who you trust doesn’t just push “list and sell” on you; they play a fiduciary role in ensuring that you make the best decision for your situation. A good agent will not allow desperation for a deal to cloud their advice to you.
The Realtor’s Role in Tenant Move-Outs
A real estate agent really doesn’t play an active role here beyond advice unless you decide to sell. 100%, your property management company has a person or team to handle move outs, inspections, and repairs to get it relisted for rent. They will conduct a thorough walk-through of the property usually within 72 business hours of a tenants move-out. This isn’t just a cursory glance; it’s a detailed inspection to identify any damages or issues that go beyond normal wear and tear.
However if you decide to sell, your agent should walk the property IN ADDITION to the normal move out process of the PM. Two reasons. First reason is that they can spot potential problems that might be overlooked when you go to sell. Selling and renting are TWO different outcomes and require different perspectives to the property. Your agent can ensure that the property manager accurately assesses any damages and charges the tenant appropriately. This could save you some costs in repairs and maintenance. The second reason for the agent walking the property is to see what improvements can be made to increase the homes value and/or speed of sale (landscaping, paint, bathroom reno, etc).
I’ve done hundreds of move out and move in inspections on rentals in my time. The detailed ones. If possible, I try first to compare to what the move in condition was but here’s just some of what I check for:
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Cleanliness
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ac vents
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ceiling fans
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kitchen cabinets and counters
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the whole bathroom
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carpets professionally cleaned?
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Junk left behind
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Mechanicals work
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Super small but important details
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Caulk and grout condition in kitchens and bathrooms
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Does the bathroom exhaust fan make that super loud grinding noise that will scare buyers away
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Do ceiling fans wobble
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Light bulbs all replaced
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Condition
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walls, doors, baseboards, trim
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flooring
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water damage
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smoke detectors
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odors
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Protecting Your Investment
Without a knowledgeable agent, property owners might end up bearing a few costs of repairs that should have been the tenant’s responsibility. Listen.. it’s not common with a great PM, but accidents do happen and even small things like recaulking along the kitchen counters can be overlooked. Your agent is really looking harder than anyone because he or she has a vested interested in the property sale. An agent helps to make sure that your investment is not diminished by unfair expenses. Make sure your agent has investment or property management experience. Someone who works average new home sales at a big name brokerage probably doesn’t know the difference between tenant and owner responsibility on move out.
Whether renting again or selling, a well-maintained property attracts better tenants, commands higher rents, sells for more and quicker. With an investment focused agent and property management company, trust that your investment is protected, especially during the transition between tenants.
If you’re a property owner in Tampa Bay, Lakeland, or Sarasota looking for an experienced real estate agent to protect and maximize your investment, especially during tenant move out, reach out to me. Let’s ensure your property continues to be a profitable asset.