Introduction
Owning a rental property can be a great investment, but what happens when a tenant stops paying rent? Many landlords struggle with non-paying tenants and find themselves stuck covering mortgage payments, taxes, and maintenance costs without rental income. If you’re in this situation, selling your rental property might be the best financial move.
In this guide, we’ll explore your options for selling a rental property with a non-paying tenant in Springfield, MO, including legal considerations, selling strategies, and the fastest ways to close a deal.
1️⃣ Can You Sell a Rental Property with a Non-Paying Tenant?
Yes, you can sell a rental property even if the tenant isn’t paying rent. However, you’ll need to decide whether to sell with the tenant in place or remove them first.
📌 Your Options:
- Sell to an Investor – Many investors buy properties with non-paying tenants and handle the eviction process themselves.
- Negotiate Cash for Keys – Offer a financial incentive to encourage the tenant to leave voluntarily.
- Start the Eviction Process – If the tenant refuses to leave, legal eviction may be necessary before selling.
✅ Pro Tip: Selling to a cash buyer who is experienced with tenant-occupied properties can help you sell fast and avoid legal hassles.
2️⃣ Understanding Missouri’s Eviction Laws
If eviction is necessary, it’s important to follow Missouri’s landlord-tenant laws to avoid legal trouble.
📜 Missouri Eviction Process:
1️⃣ Serve a 5-Day Notice to Pay or Quit – If the tenant hasn’t paid rent, you must provide written notice to pay or vacate.
2️⃣ File for Eviction – If the tenant doesn’t comply, you can file an eviction lawsuit in court.
3️⃣ Attend the Court Hearing – If the judge rules in your favor, the tenant will be ordered to leave.
4️⃣ Tenant Removal (If Necessary) – If the tenant refuses to vacate, law enforcement may enforce the eviction order.
✅ Pro Tip: The eviction process can take 30-90 days, so if you need to sell fast, consider selling to an investor willing to buy with the tenant in place.
3️⃣ Best Strategies for Selling a Rental Property with a Non-Paying Tenant
If you’re looking to sell quickly, here are your best options:
🔹 Sell to a Cash Buyer – Investors buy rental properties with tenant issues and handle the eviction process.
🔹 Sell with the Lease in Place – Some buyers may take over the lease and attempt to collect payments.
🔹 Wait for Eviction to Be Finalized – If you have time, completing the eviction first may help you attract more buyers.
✅ Pro Tip: Cash buyers don’t require inspections, financing approvals, or property showings, making them the fastest way to sell.
4️⃣ How to Sell Fast & Avoid Further Losses
1️⃣ Decide Whether to Evict or Sell As-Is – If time is a concern, selling as-is may be the best option.
2️⃣ Gather Lease & Payment Records – Buyers will want to review tenant history and outstanding rent balances.
3️⃣ Market to the Right Buyers – Investors, wholesalers, and cash buyers are your best audience.
4️⃣ Negotiate the Sale Terms – Be clear about the tenant situation to avoid legal complications post-sale.
5️⃣ Close Quickly – Selling to a cash buyer allows you to close in as little as 7 days.
✅ Pro Tip: The longer you hold onto a non-paying tenant, the more money you lose. Acting fast is key.
Conclusion
If you’re dealing with a non-paying tenant in Springfield, MO, selling your rental property could be the best way to recover lost income and move on quickly. Whether you sell as-is to an investor, negotiate a lease buyout, or go through eviction, there are options available to help you get the best outcome.
If you need to sell fast without dealing with evictions, repairs, or legal battles, a cash buyer may be your best option.
Get an offer on your rental property by filling out this easy form.
We have an easy to follow blog on The Step-by-Step Process of Selling Your Home to an Investor
Call to Action
If your going through foreclosure right now and need help on navigating through it, check out our helpful blog: How to Navigate Pre-Foreclosure, for some tips and guidance on what to do.
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