Tenant vacating process with a management company

[Edward Segaar]

We own a property in Ocala, Fl and we're just notified that our tenant will be moving out.  They gave a 90 day notice, however, our property management company stated they will not advertise it until the tenant has vacated.  I can understand not showing the property but to not advertise it feels like they're guaranteeing us to lose money.  I was wondering if this was a normal thing for management companies to do or should we start interviewing new ones once the turnover has finished?

[Mackaylee Beach]

It’s understandable to be concerned about potential lost income during the transition between tenants. While practices can vary between property management companies, many do begin advertising a rental property before the current tenant has vacated to minimize vacancy time. However, some companies may choose to wait until the property is empty to ensure it’s presented in the best possible light or due to agreements with current tenants regarding privacy and access.

It might be beneficial to have a conversation with your property management company to understand their rationale and to express your concerns. Ask if there are any exceptions to their policy or if they can provide a strategy to ensure a smooth transition with minimal vacancy. Additionally, discussing their past success in quickly filling vacancies may offer some reassurance.

If you’re not satisfied with their response or results, it could be worthwhile to explore other management options that align more closely with your expectations for property turnover and advertising. Interviewing different companies can also provide insights into industry norms and help you find a management team that best suits your needs.