10/09/2026
Lake Nona landlords: What is a good tenant worth? 🏡
Sometimes, the answer becomes clearest after they leave.
Earlier this year, I advised an owner to consider renewing their tenants rather than vacating the home to sell. The tenants paid $3,275 per month, took good care of the property and wanted to stay.
My April analysis outlined the risks: a soft sales market, limited comparable sales and the possibility of months without rental income.
The owner chose not to renew. June was the last paid month.
As of October 8, the home remained for sale after 94 days on market. Its asking price had dropped from $658,000 to $628,000. It was also back on the rental market—at $3,200 per month.
The cost of July through September alone? $9,825 in forgone gross rent, assuming the tenants renewed at their existing rate. That is before accounting for fees avoided during vacancy, and there were no turnover expenses.
Meanwhile, ownership expenses continued.
Selling can be the right choice. But before giving up a reliable tenant, ask:
• What price do actual closed sales support?
• Can I comfortably carry the home through several vacant months?
• When will I adjust my price if it doesn’t sell?
• If I return to renting, what rent can I realistically achieve?
After more than 20 years in property management, I’ve learned that helping owners understand these decisions is just as valuable as handling daily operations.
Good advice helps you see the potential costs before they become actual expenses.
Considering whether to rent, renew or sell your Lake Nona property? Let’s look at the numbers together.
Verandah Properties | Curating Lake Nona’s Finest Rental Portfolio
