A Landlord’s Guide to Understanding Your Options
Hints, Tips & Advice for Landlords

Information Guide – July 2026

1. Introduction

Welcome, and thank you for taking the time to read this guide.

At Cito Cimo, we work with landlords who are exploring options for selling tenanted properties in Aberdeen and surrounding areas.

Selling a property with tenants in place can involve additional considerations compared with selling a vacant property. Understanding the process, preparing the correct information, and considering the needs of both landlords and tenants can help create a smoother experience.

This guide has been created to provide general educational information and practical considerations for landlords who may be thinking about selling a tenanted property.

It is not intended to provide legal, financial, tax, or professional advice. Landlords should seek appropriate advice based on their individual circumstances.

2. Quick Tips for Landlords Considering a Sale

Tip #1 — A Property May Be Sold With Tenants Remaining

A tenanted property can be sold without requiring tenants to leave before completion.

Where an existing tenancy continues, the buyer may take ownership subject to the existing tenancy arrangements. Landlords should consider the type of tenancy in place and obtain appropriate advice where required.

Tip #2 — Consider Tenant Rights and Communication

Selling a property with tenants requires consideration of tenant rights and responsibilities.

Landlords should communicate clearly with tenants and ensure that any access arrangements, inspections, surveys, or viewings are handled appropriately and in accordance with current legal requirements.

Tip #3 — Prepare Documents Early

Having key information available can help the sales process run more smoothly.

Useful documents may include:

• Tenancy agreement
• Deposit protection information
• Rental payment history
• Property compliance documents
• Energy performance information
• Relevant inspection or safety certificates

3. Why Landlords Consider Selling Tenanted Properties

Landlords choose to sell properties for many different reasons, including:

Time and Management Commitments

Managing repairs, maintenance, tenant communication, and compliance responsibilities can become more demanding over time.

Retirement or Simplifying Investments

Some landlords decide to reduce the size of their portfolio or simplify their financial commitments.

Financial Considerations

Changes in personal circumstances, financing arrangements, taxation, or investment priorities may influence decisions.

Portfolio Changes

Some landlords choose to sell certain properties to reinvest elsewhere or rebalance their investments.

Every landlord’s circumstances are different, and decisions should be based on individual objectives and professional advice where appropriate.

4. Considerations When Selling a Tenanted Property

Selling a property with tenants can involve different considerations compared with selling a vacant property.

Consideration	Possible Impact
Rental income	Income may continue depending on the chosen sales approach
Tenant communication	Clear communication can help minimise disruption
Documentation	Good records can support buyer enquiries
Compliance	Required documents should be available
Marketing approach	Some buyers may specifically seek tenanted investments
Market conditions	Sale times and outcomes can vary

5. Direct Property Purchase

Some landlords may prefer to explore a direct purchase route.

This may involve:

• Selling the property without traditional open-market marketing
• The buyer purchasing based on available information and due diligence
• Existing tenants potentially remaining in place where appropriate

Potential considerations:

✔ May provide a more straightforward process
✔ May reduce some traditional selling steps
✔ Completion times vary depending on legal and practical requirements

6. Scotland – General Educational Overview

This section provides general information only and is not legal advice.

Tenancies and Property Sales

In Scotland, the sale of a property does not automatically mean an existing tenancy ends. The effect of a sale depends on the tenancy type, legal requirements, and individual circumstances.

Selling With or Without Vacant Possession

Some landlords choose to sell with tenants remaining, while others may seek vacant possession before completion.

Where vacant possession is required, landlords must follow the correct legal process and should obtain appropriate guidance before taking action.

Access During a Sale

Tenants have rights regarding occupation and privacy. Landlords should ensure that any access for inspections, surveys, or viewings is handled properly and with appropriate notice.

7. Practical Tips for a Smoother Sale

Communicate Clearly With Tenants

Keeping tenants informed and explaining the process can help maintain cooperation and reduce uncertainty.

Organise Documentation

Preparing relevant paperwork early can help answer buyer questions and support a smoother transaction.

Present the Property Clearly to Investors

Investor buyers often look for clear information about:

• Rental income
• Tenancy arrangements
• Property condition
• Compliance information

8. Next Steps

Before making a decision, landlords may wish to:

• Gather tenancy and property documents
• Review their objectives and timescales
• Consider professional advice where appropriate
• Discuss available options with a property specialist

9. Key Takeaways

• A tenanted property may be capable of being sold without tenants leaving.
• Existing tenancy arrangements should always be considered before making decisions.
• Good preparation and communication can help create a smoother process.
• Different sale routes may suit different landlord circumstances.
• Landlords should seek appropriate professional advice where required.

10. Important information

This guide is provided for general information purposes only and does not replace legal, financial, tax or property-specific advice. Independent professional advice should be sought where appropriate.