Selling
Selling a Tenant-Occupied Davie Condo: Showings and Deposits
Quick answer
A sale does not by itself establish termination of a tenant’s occupancy; have counsel review the lease and applicable law. Read the lease's access and notice terms, agree on a showing schedule with the tenant, decide whether to sell to an investor with the lease or wait for move-out, and arrange for the security deposit to transfer to the buyer at closing as Florida law and your contract require.
Separate tenant access from the closing deposit transfer
§83.53 governs landlord access, including exhibiting a dwelling to prospective purchasers. The 24-hour repair-notice definition is not a universal showing rule. Coordinate lawful notice and tenant consent without harassment.
§83.49(7) addresses transfer of deposits and advance rents to a new owner with accurate accounting on sale. Have the closing professional and attorney reconcile balances, deductions and lease documents rather than treating a sale as automatic termination of occupancy.
Sell with the tenant, or after?
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Sell with lease in place | Rental income continues; appeals to investors | Fewer owner-occupant buyers; showings harder |
| Sell after move-out | Easier showings and staging | Lost rent; vacant-home costs |
Showing checklist
- Check the lease's notice-for-entry terms
- Offer the tenant set showing windows
- Consider a thank-you incentive for cooperation
- Check association rules for lockboxes and access
Deposits and documents at closing
- Security deposit and any prepaid rent
- Copy of the lease and tenant estoppel (if requested)
- Association approval records for the tenant