Selling a Vacation Rental

Selling a vacation rental has a few moving parts that a typical home sale does not. Planning ahead protects your income and makes the property more attractive to buyers.

Rental income records

Buyers who plan to keep renting will want to see performance. Gather gross rental income, occupancy, and expenses for recent years from your rental manager or booking platforms.

Future bookings

Decide whether reservations after closing will transfer to the buyer or be canceled, and how deposits and rent will be handled at closing. Review your rental management agreement for notice periods and any cancellation terms. We will spell this out clearly in the contract.

Showings around guests

We coordinate showings between stays and work with your property manager so guests are not disturbed. Blocking a few dates for listing photos is worth it.

Furnishings

Many rentals sell turnkey with furniture and décor. Prepare an inventory of what stays and what goes so buyers know exactly what is included.

Licenses, registrations, and taxes

State vacation rental licenses and county registrations generally do not transfer to a new owner. In Walton County, for example, the seller closes their registration and the buyer applies for their own. Make sure bed taxes and sales taxes are paid up through closing. Your CPA can advise on the tax side of the sale.

Thinking about selling your rental? Start with a free home value estimate, or call 850.225.9785 or email christine@docksiderealtyinc.com.

This page is general information to help you plan. It is not legal, tax, insurance, or lending advice, and rules can change. Please confirm details with the appropriate professional before you make decisions.