Selling a house is already a big decision—but when you have tenants living in the property, things can get more complicated. If you’re a landlord in Arlington, VA looking to sell your property, this guide will walk you through your options, rights, and how to sell fast—even with tenants in place.
Whether you’re dealing with a month-to-month lease, a fixed-term agreement, or problematic renters, Capitol Cash Offer is here to help you navigate the process and offer you a fair cash price with no fees or commissions.
Can You Legally Sell a House with Tenants in Virginia?
Yes, you can absolutely sell a rental property with tenants in place. Virginia law allows landlords to sell their properties at any time—but the tenant’s rights must be respected.
In Arlington, the rules depend on the type of lease:
- Month-to-month tenants: Require 30 days’ written notice if you want them to vacate.
- Fixed-term lease tenants: You must honor the lease unless the tenant agrees to leave early.
- Tenants with rent violations or other issues: You may have legal grounds for early termination, but must follow eviction laws carefully.
Your Options for Selling a Tenant-Occupied Property
Here are the three most common strategies Arlington landlords use when selling a rental property:
1. Wait Until the Lease Ends
This is the simplest legal path. You give notice (typically 30–60 days for month-to-month leases) and wait for the tenant to move out. Once vacant, you can sell to anyone—including investors or traditional buyers.
Pros:
- More buyer options
- Higher sale price possible
Cons:
- Requires waiting
- May lose rent during transition
2. Sell the Property With Tenants in Place
This is ideal if your buyer is an investor who wants immediate cash flow. At Capitol Cash Offer, we frequently buy tenant-occupied properties, meaning you won’t need to ask your renters to leave.
Pros:
- No disruption to tenants
- Close fast (we buy as-is)
- No lost rent
Cons:
- May limit buyer pool to investors
- Lease terms must be disclosed
3. Offer “Cash for Keys”
If you want the property vacant but the tenant is still under lease, you can offer them a financial incentive to move out early. This option is often faster and less confrontational than filing an eviction.
Pros:
- Faster than waiting out lease
- Avoids legal battles
Cons:
- May cost upfront cash
- No guarantees tenant will accept
What If the Tenant Won’t Cooperate?
If your tenant refuses to allow showings, delays communication, or violates the lease, you have a few options:
- Sell to a cash buyer who doesn’t need a walkthrough. Capitol Cash Offer often buys without interior access.
- Work with a real estate attorney to evaluate lease-breaking options.
- Wait out the lease or negotiate an early termination.
We recommend documenting everything and staying compliant with all Virginia landlord-tenant laws to avoid liability.
How Capitol Cash Offer Makes It Easy for Landlords
As local Arlington homebuyers, we specialize in purchasing rental properties with tenants, including situations other buyers avoid.
Here’s how we help:
✅ No showings or inspections – We can often make an offer without disturbing your tenant.
✅ Buy as-is – No repairs, updates, or cleaning needed.
✅ Tenants can stay or go – We’ll work with you to honor existing leases or arrange a transition.
✅ Close on your timeline – In as little as 7 days or when your lease ends.
Real Example: Arlington Duplex Sold with Tenants in Place
A landlord recently contacted Capitol Cash Offer to sell their duplex in South Arlington. One unit was vacant, and the other had a long-term tenant who wasn’t ready to move. Instead of waiting out the lease, the seller accepted our cash offer and we took over the lease without issue. The deal closed in just 10 days, with no agent fees or repairs.
FAQs: Selling with Tenants in Arlington
Can I sell a house in Virginia without telling my tenants?
You can sell without disclosing it early, but if showings are needed or you want them to vacate, they must be notified per lease terms.
Will my tenant have to move out before closing?
Not always. If you sell to Capitol Cash Offer, your tenant can remain. If selling to a traditional buyer, the buyer may require vacancy.
What happens to the tenant’s security deposit?
It’s usually transferred to the new owner at closing. Make sure it’s documented in the sales contract.
Can you help with inherited rental properties?
Yes—we buy inherited homes with tenants in place and can walk you through any probate or title issues.
Get a Cash Offer for Your Rental Property in Arlington, VA
If you’re ready to sell your rental property—whether it’s occupied, in disrepair, or under a difficult lease—Capitol Cash Offer can help. We’ve been helping landlords and investors in Arlington, VA since 2015.
📞 Call us today at 202-235-2323
💻 Or request your free offer at Capitolcashoffer.com
Capitol Cash Offer – Fast, Fair Cash Offers for Landlords in Arlington and Across Northern Virginia