Rental Property: Out-of-State Owner Looking to Exit

[Alex Saunders]

I purchased an up-down duplex in Des Moines near Drake University about two years ago with the intention of holding long-term, but it's become clear this isn't sustainable for me as a remote owner. Here's a quick summary of the situation:

• -Property is currently vacant and being sold as-is

• -Located in a strong rental market, but needs someone local or with better infrastructure in place

• -Hired a professional management company early on, but they canceled the contract after ongoing tenant challenges

• -Had to initiate eviction proceedings myself (successfully) but it confirmed that self-managing from out of state is not realistic for me

• -Struggled to find reliable local contractors for basic turnaround and maintenance work

• -New roof installed last year after a tree fell—fully covered and completed via insurance

• -Some cosmetic and operational improvements made early on, but the property needs fresh eyes and hands-on attention

• -I’m at the point where holding the property any longer could lead to further deterioration or risk

If you're local and looking for a value-add opportunity—or have the infrastructure to manage remote holdings more effectively—this could be a great deal. My goal is to exit cleanly and let someone else step in and make the most of it.