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Why Do Tenants Leave Good Units?

Updated: Sep 14, 2023


Property management can be a challenging endeavor, and one of the most perplexing aspects is understanding why tenants sometimes choose to leave good rental units. You may have a well-maintained property in a desirable location, but still, find yourself facing tenant turnover. In this blog post, we will delve into the common reasons why tenants leave even when they are residing in good rental units and discuss strategies for reducing turnover and retaining high-quality tenants.


1. Rent Increases


One of the most prevalent reasons tenants leave good units is rent increases. While it's natural for landlords to adjust rental rates to keep up with market trends or cover increasing expenses, steep or frequent rent hikes can prompt tenants to seek more affordable alternatives. To mitigate this, consider implementing gradual and reasonable rent increases and communicate them clearly with your tenants in advance.


2. Job Relocation


Job-related factors are often beyond your control. Tenants may need to relocate for work, and this can lead to the decision to leave a good rental unit. While you can't prevent this, you can foster good relationships with your tenants and provide flexibility when lease terms allow for early termination in case of job-related moves.


3. Change in Family Situation


Tenants' family situations can change, leading to a need for larger or smaller accommodations. A growing family might require more space, while an empty-nester may downsize. According to this Pittsburgh property management company if understand these life changes can help you accommodate tenants by offering different unit sizes within your rental portfolio.


4. Desire for Homeownership


Many tenants aspire to become homeowners, and when they feel financially secure, they may decide to make the transition. While you can't change this aspiration, you can offer incentives such as lease-to-own options or provide information on local home-buying resources.


5. Maintenance and Repairs


Even in well-maintained units, occasional maintenance and repair issues can arise. If these issues are not addressed promptly and effectively, they can become a source of tenant dissatisfaction and lead to departures. Regularly inspect and maintain your property to prevent maintenance issues from escalating.


6. Disruptions from Neighbors


Disruptive neighbors can make a good rental unit less desirable. Noise, disturbances, or conflicts with other tenants can drive otherwise content renters away. Consider establishing clear and fair tenant conduct rules and address any complaints or issues promptly.


7. Lack of Amenities or Features


Tenants may leave good units in search of properties with additional amenities or features. These could include a swimming pool, fitness center, in-unit laundry, or updated appliances. Assess the competition in your market and consider upgrading or adding amenities to stay competitive.


8. Personal Preferences


Sometimes, tenants leave because of personal preferences. They may prefer a different neighborhood, a specific school district, or a change in their lifestyle. While you can't cater to every personal preference, understanding your target market's preferences can help you tailor your offerings accordingly.


9. Changes in Management or Ownership


Changes in property management or ownership can be unsettling for tenants. If new management is not as responsive or friendly as the previous one, tenants may decide to leave. Ensure a smooth transition and maintain consistent communication with tenants during any changes.


10. Tenant-Tenant Conflicts


Conflicts between tenants can make living in a rental unit uncomfortable. If not resolved effectively, tenant conflicts can lead to one or more tenants vacating the property. Establish clear conflict resolution procedures and address issues promptly to prevent tenant turnover.


11. Personal Financial Issues


Financial hardships can force tenants to leave good units. Job loss, unexpected medical expenses, or other financial challenges can make it difficult to keep up with rent payments. Offering flexible payment options and working with tenants during tough times can help retain them.


12. Lack of Flexibility in Lease Terms


A rigid lease agreement with little flexibility can be a deterrent to tenants. Consider offering options for shorter lease terms or including clauses that allow for lease modifications in certain situations, such as job transfers or medical emergencies.


Strategies to Reduce Tenant Turnover

  • Now that we've discussed the reasons tenants leave good units, let's explore strategies to reduce turnover and retain high-quality tenants:

  • Regular Communication: Maintain open lines of communication with your tenants. Listen to their concerns and address them promptly.

  • Regular Maintenance: Perform regular property inspections and address maintenance issues promptly to ensure tenant satisfaction.

  • Competitive Rent: Keep rental rates competitive in your market to prevent tenants from leaving due to excessive rent increases.

  • Flexible Lease Terms: Offer flexible lease terms when possible, such as shorter lease durations or options for early termination.

  • Responsive Management: Ensure that your property management team is responsive, friendly, and attentive to tenant needs.

  • Amenity Upgrades: Consider upgrading or adding amenities to make your rental units more attractive to potential tenants.

  • Incentives: Offer incentives such as lease renewals with no rent increases or referral bonuses to encourage tenant retention.

  • Quality Tenant Screening: Implement thorough tenant screening processes to select reliable and responsible tenants from the start.

13. Conclusion


Reducing tenant turnover is essential for maintaining a stable and profitable rental property. By understanding the reasons tenants leave good units and implementing the strategies outlined above, you can create a positive and long-lasting rental experience for your tenants. If you're looking for professional property management services to help you retain high-quality tenants and manage your rental property effectively, contact us today. We're here to support your efforts in achieving a harmonious landlord-tenant relationship and maximizing the success of your rental investments.

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