Tenant Estoppel Certificate

August 24, 2021

Tenant estoppel certificates are crucial when buying an investment property that is already inhabited by long-term tenants. Learn all about tenant estoppel certificates and how it protects buyers and tenants, along with the pros and cons of inheriting tenants. Read the full blog here: https://www.turbotenant.com/blog/tenant-estoppel-certificate/

What is a Tenant Estoppel Certificate? We begin by demystifying the term “tenant estoppel certificate.” Discover how this critical document comes into play during the sale of a property with existing tenants. It serves as a means to verify lease terms, conditions, and the current lease status, all while acting as tangible proof of cash flow for investors.

Inheriting Tenants: The Good & The Not So Great Learn about the advantages and potential challenges of inheriting tenants when purchasing a property. Explore the benefits of immediate cash flow, bypassing tenant screening and marketing efforts, and the possibility of inheriting responsible, long-term tenants. On the flip side, we delve into the less favorable scenarios, including tenants ending leases prematurely or causing property damage.

How the Estoppel Protects Buyers & Tenants Understand the critical role that estoppel certificates play in safeguarding both buyers and tenants. Discover how these certificates act as assurance measures, ensuring tenants do not attempt to pay lower rent and protecting them from inaccuracies in lease information. Buyers benefit by gaining insight into any maintenance commitments made by the current landlord.

FAQ: Demystifying Tenant Estoppel Certificates Our FAQ section addresses commonly asked questions, such as the purpose of a tenant estoppel certificate, who typically requests it (buyers or lenders), and whether tenants should sign the certificate. We provide clear and concise answers to help all parties involved understand the significance of this document in property transactions.

Whether you’re a property owner, tenant, or prospective buyer, understanding tenant estoppel certificates is essential in ensuring a smooth transition of property ownership. Watch our video to gain valuable insights into this vital aspect of real estate transactions.

Video Transcript

We will cover 4 main points:

  • What is a tenant estoppel certificate?
  • Inheriting tenants: the good & not great
  • The purpose of tenant estoppel certificates
  • FAQ

What is a tenant estoppel certificate?

A tenant estoppel certificate is used in the sale of a home that has current tenants.

It verifies the terms, conditions, and current status of a lease agreement, while also acting as proof of cash flow for the investor.

Inheriting Tenants: The Good & The Not 

The Good

  • Immediate cash flow
  • No need for tenant screening or marketing
  • Could inherit great long-term tenants who take care of the property

The Not Great

  • Renters may be shell-shocked and end the lease early
  • Could inherit poor tenants who damage the property or violate lease agreements

How the Estoppel Protects Buyers & Tenants

One of the most important things an estoppel does is serve as a surety measure.

Buyers:

  • Prevents tenants from trying to pay lower rent
  • Ensures the tenants don’t have claims against the previous landlord

Tenants:

  • Protects tenants from inaccurate lease information
  • Ensures the buyer knows about maintenance promises the current landlord made

FAQ: What is the purpose of a tenant estoppel certificate?

The tenant estoppel certificate verifies that certain facts are correct for another’s benefit.

It verifies the facts, terms, and conditions of a lease agreement are correct at the time of signing.

FAQ: Who requests a tenant estoppel certificate?

Generally, the buyer or lender will request a tenant estoppel certificate as proof of cash flow and to determine potential exposures they may face as soon-to-be owners of the property.

FAQ: As a tenant, should I sign a tenant estoppel certificate?

The new landlord may request that you sign the certificate to prove cash flow and to know the status of an active lease. As a tenant, you must do your due diligence to check that the lease agreement terms are accurately reflected in the certificate.

 

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