If you are getting ready to move, you might be focused on preparing to sell your current home - but there's another option worth considering... keeping it as a rental property. In some cases, renting out your home instead of selling it can offer both short-term cash flow and long-term investment benefits.

Here in Harrisonburg, rental demand remains strong with most owners of rental properties seeing strong (and rising) rental rates, tenants staying for multiple years, and very short vacancies (if any) between tenants. So, if your home is in good condition and in a desirable location, it could be a great candidate for a long-term rental.

Of course, being a landlord isn't for everyone. You'll want to think through the responsibilities of property management, the potential for vacancies or repairs, and whether you're comfortable holding onto the property for several more years. But for many homeowners, especially those moving locally or with enough equity to refinance, it's a strategy that can build wealth over time.

Before making a decision, it's smart to run the numbers. What would your monthly mortgage payment be if you kept the house? How much rent could you realistically expect to receive? I’d be happy to help you explore what's possible based on the current market trends in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County.

If you're curious whether your home would make a good rental, or just want to better understand your options, let's chat. Selling is still a great choice in many situations - but it's not the only option.