Can You Sell a Block with Sitting Tenants in the UK?

Yes, you can. In fact, selling a block of flats with sitting tenants is common — especially in the portfolio sales market. While many landlords worry it may complicate the sale, professional buyers like Citywide Blocks often prefer occupied units because they represent immediate rental income.

What matters is how the sale is structured — and how tenant-related challenges are managed.

Risks of Trying to Evict Tenants Before Selling

Trying to vacate a tenanted block before sale can lead to:

  • Delays from serving notice periods (2–6 months or more)
  • Disputes over deposits and tenancy rights
  • Voids that lower your property’s rental yield (and value)
  • Unnecessary stress if tenants resist or appeal

With our off-market acquisition process, you don’t need to go down this route. We buy blocks in their current condition — with or without tenants — and handle all transitions in-house.

What Buyers Look for in Tenant-Filled Properties

Professional buyers and investment firms focus on the following:

  • Up-to-date tenancy agreements (ASTs or company lets)
  • Rental payment history
  • Compliance documents (EPC, gas safety, EICR)
  • Block condition (HMO licences if applicable)
  • Potential to add value through refurbishment or management improvements

If these are in order, your block can sell just as quickly — if not faster — than a vacant one.

How Citywide Blocks Manages Tenant Transitions Seamlessly

At Citywide Blocks, we specialise in acquiring residential blocks with sitting tenants in place. Here’s how we handle it:

  1. Discreet Property Assessment – No disruption to your tenants during our review.
  2. Tenant Communication – If needed, we speak directly with tenants after exchange, not before.
  3. Legal Review – Our solicitors review all tenancy agreements and resolve any risks.
  4. Handover Plan – We coordinate a professional and respectful transition process.

This hands-off approach protects your relationship with tenants and keeps the sale process confidential.

Common Questions Landlords Ask Before Selling with Tenants

Q: Will tenants need to move out?
No — we often retain tenants, especially if they’re paying on time.

Q: What if I have arrears or tenant issues?
We assess and price accordingly. We buy blocks with challenges.

Q: Do I need to inform tenants?
Not until legally required. Our process ensures confidentiality until exchange or completion.

Q: What happens to their deposits?
We ensure all deposits are legally transferred and protected during sale.

Your Options: Direct Sale vs Portfolio Sale

If you’re selling a single block, we can make a direct offer. If you own multiple blocks or units, we also handle bulk portfolio acquisitions, often structuring the deal for maximum tax efficiency and simplicity.

Whether your properties are in Leeds, Manchester, Bradford, or across the North, we have buyers ready.

Book a Free Block Valuation – No Tenant Disruption Needed

We make selling a tenanted block of flats easy:

Step 1: Get in Touch
Contact us today by phone or complete our online form to schedule a free, no-obligation property consultation.

Step 2: Property Assessment
We’ll visit your block to assess its condition, review tenancy schedules, and ensure everything is compliant.

Step 3: Compliance & Handover
We manage the legal process and work around your existing tenancy arrangements.

Step 4: Fast Completion
You receive your funds, and we take over fully — with no fuss.

Considering selling a block with tenants in place?
Avoid the headaches. Contact Citywide Blocks today on 0113 323 0678 or fill out our enquiry form online.