Ideas on how to sell a property with a tenant in place

[Whitney Hutten]

Hi!  We recently identified a property we need to sell in order to recoup capital for another investment.  We spoke with the tenants end of August, and they weren't interested in purchasing the property, so we let them know we could be listing it.  We found an agent and work out details, and we go to confirm the schedule for open houses (which we originally agreed would be the minimal impact to them) and the wife is NOT happy now.  She is worried about people using the restrooms, people stealing her stuff, etc, during the open house.  So we went to switch to an open house model so each person has a realtor escort, now the tenant is saying that that is too intrusive to her family and it is not an option.  

Does anyone have any success stories or pointers on how to sell this home?  

[Steve Vaughan]

I tried to sell one this year with a tenant in place.  The difference is they gave me notice (they were buying) so it was very amicable. 

I offered them a piece if they help me.  By keeping things tidy and walking the dog during showings (one would stay and show and watch their stuff) they stood to earn some cash if anyone bought.

If it drifted into a new month, I also would have also given a rent discount for their trouble.  I would also keep an ear out to try to get them a new place if it was my decision to list.   

Offer a carrot and try to work around their schedule twice a week or so only with the showings.  Don't want them mad @Whitney Hutten!