Trying to sell property but tenant doesn't want to give keys

[Ayodeji Kuponiyi]

I recently took over 2 properties that were deeded to me by my dad and plan to sell them to purchase an apartment building. One of the properties is a duplex with one unit vacant, the other occupied. I have a lock box on the property for prospects to see the vacant unit. I just found out the tenant changed their keys for their unit and I need to show their unit. The tenant offers to be accommodating which is great but what if I need to show their unit when they're not home? I've already requested a copy of their key but what else can I do? Thanks in advance

[Dan B.]

What does the lease say?

Typically a lease will prohibit tenants changing locks and give the owner/agents the right to access the property anytime as long as 24 hour notice is given for any (reasonable) reason. 

If the lease has this clause in it they are in violation of the lease. If they don't give you a copy of the key in the very near future I would remind them of this and be a bit more forceful. You have your rights as owner/agent, and they need to respect that, but good tenant relations are important so I wouldn't recommend being a bully about it.