Oh no - your landlord’s priorities have changed and they want to sell the property you’re renting! Panic not. Although it’s never the best message to receive, there are a number of measures you can take to ensure the next step is as smooth and painless as possible.
As a tenant, you are an integral part of the landlord’s business and deserve to be heard. Do not shun them and immediately go house hunting. Reach out to your landlord, state your circumstances and invite a positive conversation where you can work on a mutually beneficial timeline. Ask that they update on every step of the way; it’s only fair.
If you’ve been saving for a home anyway, it might be convenient that you buy the house in a straight exchange. The landlord will benefit from avoiding estate agents, and you will acquire a home that’s already yours. You could also strike up a deal regarding any renovations they had planned, or you could buy it at a reduced cost and save them the bother.
If you plan to go down this route, make sure existing issues with the house have been addressed or removed from the final price! Faulty appliances or damaged areas should not be passed on without proper acknowledgement.
Tenancy contracts state a minimum notice period for any cessation to your stay. Double check that the landlord is abiding by this and let them know you are paying attention to the fine print. Some landlords leave the selling card to the very end; that can be pushed back by your right to stay in the property for a certain period of time. This can be as little as one month, but sometimes as much as 3 or 6 months.
