June 5, 2023 | Selling

Everything you need to know about selling a tenanted home

IIncome properties, basement apartments, laneway suites, and in-law suites continue to be highly desirable in the East Toronto real estate market. Not only can these spaces help homeowners offset mortgage costs, but they can also add long-term value and flexibility to a property.

If you currently own a tenanted property and are thinking about selling, there are a few important things to understand before listing your home.

Can You Sell a Property With a Tenant?

Yes, you can absolutely sell a tenanted property in Toronto. In many cases, having an existing tenant can even appeal to investors looking for immediate rental income.

If the tenant has a fixed-term lease, that lease transfers to the new owner and remains in place until the term ends. The new owner becomes the landlord under the existing agreement.

For buyers interested in Toronto income properties, this can be a major advantage.

What Happens With Month-to-Month Tenants?

If the tenant is renting month-to-month, the new owner may be able to provide notice for the tenant to leave, but only under certain circumstances.

Typically, this only applies if the new owner or an immediate family member plans to move into the property themselves. Proper notice periods and legal procedures must still be followed.

When selling a tenanted property in the East Toronto real estate market, it is important to work with experienced real estate professionals who understand current tenant regulations and requirements.

Informing Your Tenant

There is no formal legal requirement to notify a tenant before listing a property for sale. However, maintaining open communication can make the process much smoother for everyone involved.

Giving tenants advance notice often helps create a more cooperative experience throughout showings, photography, and the overall sales process.

A positive relationship with tenants can make a significant difference when preparing a home for the Toronto real estate market.

How Do Showings Work?

To show a tenanted space to potential buyers, landlords must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice.

Showings must also take place between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Tenants are not required to leave the property during showings, which is something sellers should be prepared for when listing East Toronto homes for sale with rental units.

Can You Stage a Tenanted Space?

While sellers can request permission to stage or professionally clean a tenanted unit, tenants are not obligated to agree.

You also cannot require tenants to declutter, rearrange furniture, or alter the space for marketing purposes.

That said, many tenants are willing to cooperate when communication is respectful and expectations are clear.

In the East Toronto real estate market, presentation still matters, especially for income properties and multi-unit homes.

Selling Income Properties in East Toronto

Properties with basement apartments, laneway suites, and rental units remain popular throughout many East Toronto neighbourhoods. Buyers are often attracted to the added income potential and flexibility these homes can provide.

Whether you are selling a fully tenanted investment property or a family home with a secondary suite, working with knowledgeable East Toronto realtors can help make the process smoother and less stressful.Thinking of selling your tenanted home in Toronto? Learn more about tenants’ rights in the Residential Tenancies Act, and let our team of experts help you find the right buyer.

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