A Guide for Landlords Realtor Showcasing a Home

When marketing a tenant-occupied home in Alberta, it’s crucial to grasp the nuances of the Residential Tenancies Act to prevent possible complications. The RTA outlines two main categories of leases: fixed-term and periodic (month-to-month).

Fixed-Term Tenancy Agreements

In the case of fixed-term tenancy agreements, terminating the lease prematurely requires a consensus between the property owner and the tenant. Without a mutual agreement, the lease endures beyond the sale of the property, which may affect its appeal to potential buyers.

Periodic Tenancy (Month-to-Month) Agreements

Periodic tenancy agreements, on the other hand, provide a bit more leeway. Property owners can issue a 90-day notice to vacate once an offer on the property is finalized and all conditions have been met. It’s vital to note that this notice can only be given after these conditions are fulfilled.

To put it into perspective:

• For periodic leases, the tenant has until the end of the third complete month following the notice to vacate.
• For fixed-term leases, tenants are entitled to stay until their agreement expires, regardless of any change in ownership.

Organizing Property Viewings

When it comes to arranging viewings, landlords are obligated to give their tenants at least 24 hours of notice and must schedule these visits during reasonable hours. Tenants have the right to remain in the premises during these times, which can present obstacles if the tenants are uncooperative or displeased.

Handling tenant-occupied properties can introduce unique challenges for landlords aiming to sell. While the law permits the listing and showcasing of such properties, overcoming potential hurdles is key. Conversely, selling an unoccupied property might streamline the process and increase profitability, highlighting the significance of tenant relations in the sales strategy.

Have more questions about selling a tenant-occupied property in Alberta? Reach out to Derek Chevrefils – Calgary REALTOR® with eXp Realty using the form below.