Small multifamily that needs work but has existing tenants

General Real Estate Investing
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Small multifamily that needs work but has existing tenants

Andrew MyersBusiness Member
Investor · Denver, CO · Member since 2017 · 26 posts · 16 votes

To the BP community, what are the strategies out there around purchasing a small multi-family property (2-10 units) that needs work but has existing tenants?  Do you wait until the leases terms end before making improvements?  Break the leases (if possible), do the work, then re-lease?  I'm sure there are some legal considerations as well.  

Any insight and experience shared is very much appreciated!

[email protected]303-503-6555
SVN | SFRhub Marketplace
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Theresa HarrisPro Member
Member since 2019 · 15k+ posts · 11k+ votes
7y

You need to complete the leases.  Start by working on common areas as these will benefit everyone and as leases expire and you show the place to new tenants, it will help you rent the units.  

Don't rush to have the leases expire if the units are being rented at market value and you are cash flowing.  You don't want all the units vacant at the same time.  As units gradually become vacant, do the renovations and then list them for rent, presumably the rent will have increased.  This will also spread out the costs of the renos.

This only applies to renos, do any repairs right away as leaving them unattended to can cause more damage in the long run.

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  • Deren Huang
    Real Estate Agent · Tulsa, OK · Member since 2016 · 408 posts · 242 votes
    7y

    When purchasing you must honor the lease, it may vary state to state. 

    I would collect rent until lease is up and give the required notice or an increase or rent. Win-Win, you either get the increased rent or the ability to renovate. 

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  • Jim D.
    Investor · United States · Member since 2015 · 415 posts · 487 votes
    7y

    You're legally bound to honor the existing lease when you buy a property. You'll need to either wait for the lease to end, or agree with the renters to end the lease early.

    When introducing yourself to the renters in this situation, you can let them know that if they are looking to move, they are welcome to end the lease early at any time if they give you 30 days notice. Frame it as a favor to them and sometimes they'll take you up on it and move early if it's convenient for them.

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  • Theresa HarrisPro Member
    Member since 2019 · 15k+ posts · 11k+ votes
    7y

    You need to complete the leases.  Start by working on common areas as these will benefit everyone and as leases expire and you show the place to new tenants, it will help you rent the units.  

    Don't rush to have the leases expire if the units are being rented at market value and you are cash flowing.  You don't want all the units vacant at the same time.  As units gradually become vacant, do the renovations and then list them for rent, presumably the rent will have increased.  This will also spread out the costs of the renos.

    This only applies to renos, do any repairs right away as leaving them unattended to can cause more damage in the long run.

    1Reply
  • Andrew MyersBusiness Member
    OP
    Investor · Denver, CO · Member since 2017 · 26 posts · 16 votes
    7y

    Thank you @Jim D. / @Deren Huang / @Theresa Harris !!

    I appreciate your insight!

    [email protected]303-503-6555
    SVN | SFRhub Marketplace
    WebsiteView Page
    0Reply
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