Many of the Mesquite NV homes and Condos for sale are Tenant Occupied Rentals - Many agents see that as a difficult listing and harder to show and sell. It doesn't have to be that way. Having existing tenants in a rental home or condo can be an opportunity to make a home more attractive to investor buyers.
Add a bonus to the tenant! Cash for Clean - Stage it to sell it!
Let the tenants know that you are looking for a new landlord for them and they might not have to move.
An existing tenant may prefer to stay - it is his home, he is already there - moving is not fun.
Like many real estate markets - we have a fairly high vacancy rate here in Mesquite. I have been successful in getting tenants to cooperate by asking them if they would like to stay in the rental property after it is sold - if so, I can market it as a solid tenant occupied rental property with a reference from the current owner/landlord.
Tenants are more cooperative when they are not worried about looking for a new rental property and moving and want to impress their future landlord.
I have had several tenants who have cooperated with some home staging as well as agreed keep the house clean and fresh.
If they don't want a lockbox, OK, but they have to agree to show at short notice or allow me to.
You can market the property to investors as occupied - it has more value to an investor looking for a property to rent out - or to a buyer who wants to buy now while the prices are low and rent it until they are ready to use it as a second home or retirement home.
In a declining rental market, the current rents are typically a little higher than the current market rent would be.
Offering a one month's rent bonus agreement to the tenant if they cooperate and show the property well sometimes encourages them to keep it in top showing condition. If the property sells to a buyer who wants to move in, the bonus will help with the tenant's moving costs. I will split the cost of that bonus with the seller and we both write it off as an expense of doing business.
A separate bonus to any kids is effective, too - Cash for Clean! McDonald's Happy Meal coupons, a Walmart card. Give them a checklist for their rooms and have them sign it.
In a short sale situation that may take awhile, this might help the seller keep some income during that long escrow. Taking a positive approach to the existing situation can show your seller just how creative you can be to get their home or condo sold.
If you are working with an investment buyer - preview some properties and chat with the tenants.
One happy seller + one happy buyer + one happy tenant = Cash for all!
Mesquite Nevada Real Estate Agent ~ ~ ERA
Virginia Hepp ~ Mesquite Realtor 
Virginia, We had a tenant once that inhibited the showing of a home by double locking a door so the lockbox key wouldn't work. If called would just refuse a showing or would be there during the showing to glare at everyone. The owner was out of town which made it even more difficult. The home sold after a year but it was a difficult year.
Susan, I have had some nightmares with rental properties, too - some sellers just can't afford to give up the rent income while it is listed for sale.
This solution will work in some cases, not all. The tenants still have to be cooperative - but sometimes if they know that you are actively looking for an investor to buy the condo or home - it could help.
Great idea, Virginia, especially when you offer the money at the end of the process, like a bonus or a commission. and perhaps attach stipulations such as positive feedback for interior/exterior condition, etc.
Virginia,
With tenant occupied properties, it is the whole range from the worst to the best. All depends on people.
Smart way to deal with it, BTW
Excellent ideas Virginia! You were mentioned at and missed at Raincamp!
Marzena - that is a very good idea!
Jon - so many people assume tennants will be a problem in rentals and so they are. It also has to do with empathy and respect for their position.
Renee - thanks, I missed being at Rain Camp, expect you to post about it. :)
Good thoughts Virginia. Keeping tenants cooperating is imperative for a smooth transaction!
Hi Bill, tenants can be a real deal killer. Or not.