Selling a Tenanted Property or Investment? What You Need to Know
Selling a tenanted property is more complex than a standard home sale, but with the right planning and communication, it can be handled smoothly. Whether you are a landlord looking to release capital, consolidate your portfolio, or step back from management responsibilities, timing and presentation are key to achieving a successful sale.
At Charles Bainbridge, we regularly assist Canterbury landlords and investors through this process. Here’s what you need to know before you start.
1. Understand your tenancy agreement
Before listing, review your tenant’s current agreement carefully. The type of tenancy will affect what you can do and when.
Fixed-term tenancy: you’ll need to honour the full term unless both parties agree to an early end.
Periodic tenancy: you can serve notice in line with the contract and legal requirements.
Always ensure notice periods are correct and served properly. A professional letting agent or solicitor can confirm the right procedure so you remain compliant.
2. Decide whether to sell with or without tenants in situ
You have two main options.
Selling with tenants in situ
This approach can attract investors looking for ready-made income. The benefit is continuous rent, no void period, and minimal disruption for your tenants. However, the buyer pool will be smaller, as it primarily appeals to landlords rather than residential owner-occupiers.
Selling with vacant possession
If the property has strong owner-occupier appeal, it may achieve a higher sale price once vacant. The trade-off is the risk of a void period between tenants leaving and completion.
Your agent should help you weigh the pros and cons based on your property type, location, and current market demand in Canterbury.
3. Timing and presentation
If you’re selling while tenants remain in place, presentation can be sensitive. It’s important to work cooperatively with your tenants to arrange photography and viewings at convenient times. Offer plenty of notice and small gestures of appreciation, it goes a long way toward securing their cooperation.
Clean, tidy spaces photograph better and reassure potential buyers that the property is well maintained. Where possible, plan minor maintenance or safety checks before launching the listing.
4. Avoiding costly voids
For many landlords, the biggest worry is losing rental income during the sale. Clear communication and timing are your best tools for prevention.
Agree in writing with tenants when they’ll vacate.
Overlap marketing with the final weeks of the tenancy if appropriate.
Prepare any works quickly so the property can be re-let or complete sale without delay.
A well-organised transition means fewer gaps between income and completion.
5. Navigating legal and financial details
When selling an investment property, ensure all compliance documents are up to date: Gas Safety, Electrical Safety, EPC, deposit protection, and tenancy agreements. Buyers will request this paperwork during due diligence, and having it ready demonstrates professionalism.
If you hold multiple investments, consider the financial implications such as Capital Gains Tax or mortgage exit fees. Early conversations with your accountant or financial adviser can help you plan efficiently.
6. The right support makes the process easier
Selling a tenanted property involves balancing several relationships at once, with tenants, buyers, and sometimes managing agents. An experienced sales team that understands the lettings landscape can make a huge difference.
At Charles Bainbridge, we coordinate every step with care, ensuring compliance, maintaining communication, and protecting your return.