Options for landlords who want an easier exit
Owning a rental in Jacksonville can be a solid investment, until it is not. Maybe repairs keep piling up, tenants have moved out, rent payments are inconsistent, or you are simply ready to stop dealing with late-night calls about plumbing and AC.
If you are thinking, “I want to sell my rental property and be done,” you have options. In this guide, we will walk through common paths for Jacksonville landlords, what changes when you sell a house with tenants, and how a cash sale can help you move on. This is especially helpful if you want to sell rental property “as is.”
Why Jacksonville landlords decide to sell
Every landlord’s situation is different, but these are some of the most common reasons we hear:
-
Maintenance costs keep rising. Roof, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and termite issues add up.
-
Turnover is exhausting. Repairs, cleaning, marketing, and screening take time.
-
Landlords often face tenant challenges, such as lease violations, property damage, or nonpayment.
-
You inherited a rental and do not want to manage it.
-
You are relocating or simplifying your finances.
-
You are ready to cash out and reinvest elsewhere.
No matter the reason, the goal is usually the same: to sell in a way that protects your time, money, and peace of mind.
Your main options for selling rental properties in Jacksonville
When people search for “rental properties for sale,” they’re usually looking for a deal, predictable numbers, and minimal hassle. As a seller, you typically choose between 3 routes.
Option 1: List on the open market
Listing can work well if the house is in good condition and will show nicely. But rentals often come with challenges that affect showings and offers, such as:
-
Tenants who don’t want showings
-
Deferred maintenance
-
Cosmetic issues that aren’t “retail-ready”
-
Appraisal or inspection issues
If the property is vacant and updated, this can be a strong route. If it needs work or has an active tenant, listing may take more coordination.
Option 2: Sell to another investor
An investor looking at a rental house for sale may care less about cosmetic issues and more about the numbers. They often evaluate:
-
Current rent and lease terms
-
Property condition and repair costs
-
Comparable rents in the neighborhood
-
Tenant payment history (if available)
This can be a good match, especially if the property is already performing well.
Option 3: Sell for cash to a professional home buyer
If you want fewer steps, a cash offer can be appealing—especially when the home needs repairs, you want to avoid listing prep, or you’d rather not coordinate showings.
With We Buy Ugly Houses®, many rental property owners choose this option because it can simplify the sale, even when the property isn’t perfect. We don’t charge commissions or hidden fees, and we pay typical closing costs.† We can sometimes close in as little as 3 weeks.

Selling a rental house with tenants: what to know
If you plan to sell a house with tenants, a few details can affect the process:
-
Lease terms: A buyer may need to honor an existing lease, depending on state and local rules.
-
Showings and access: Tenants typically have rights to notice before entry.
-
Tenant cooperation: If the relationship is strained, selling can feel harder than it needs to be.
-
Property condition: Wear-and-tear is normal, but heavy damage can limit buyer interest.
Some buyers prefer tenant-occupied rentals because income is already in place. Others prefer vacant properties. Either way, understanding your lease and local requirements can help you avoid surprises.
When it makes sense to sell a rental property “as is”
Choosing to sell rental property “as is” can be a practical option when:
-
Repairs are too expensive or time-consuming
-
You’re tired of coordinating contractors
-
The property has deferred maintenance from years of renting
-
It’s vacant and you don’t want to rehab it before selling
-
You’re dealing with a difficult tenant situation
-
You want a more straightforward exit
Selling “as is” means you are not planning to fix everything before the sale. Disclosure requirements may still apply depending on your situation.
A simple way to compare your options
If you’re deciding whether to list, sell to an investor, or accept a cash offer, compare these factors:
-
Timeline. How soon do you want the property sold?
-
Out-of-pocket costs. Repairs, cleaning, utilities, and holding costs.
-
Effort level. Showings, tenant coordination, and contractor management.
-
Certainty. Financing and appraisal risks versus a direct sale.
-
Net proceeds. What you keep after costs, fees, and time.
Sometimes the best option is not the highest number on paper. It’s the one that fits your life and reduces stress.
Next steps for Jacksonville property owners
If you’re ready to sell investment property in Jacksonville and want an easier path, start by gathering information. A no-obligation cash offer can give you a clear baseline, especially if the home needs work or you’d rather avoid the listing process.
Explore your options with America’s trusted home buyer, starting with a no-obligation cash offer.
Frequently asked questions
Can I sell rental property in Jacksonville for cash?
Yes. Many landlords choose a cash sale to reduce steps and avoid repairs, showings, or delays tied to buyer financing.
Can I sell a rental house if it needs repairs?
Often, yes. You can list “as is,” sell to an investor, or request a cash offer from a professional home buyer.
What happens if I sell a house with tenants still living there?
It depends on the lease, notice requirements, and local rules. Some buyers are comfortable purchasing tenant-occupied rentals, while others prefer vacant properties.
Do I have to renovate before I sell investment property?
Not necessarily. Many landlords sell without renovating, particularly when costs are high or they want a faster exit. This is also the case in Orlando and Tampa Bay markets.
What does it mean to sell rental property “as is”?
It means selling the property in its current condition, without agreeing to make repairs before closing.
Are there fees or commissions when selling directly for cash?
With We Buy Ugly Houses, we don’t charge commissions or hidden fees, and we pay typical closing costs.†
How fast can a cash sale close in Jacksonville?
Timelines vary, but we can sometimes close in as little as 3 weeks.
This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.










