If your Jamul home is on the market but you haven’t gotten an offer you’re comfortable with, you might be wondering: what do I do if it doesn’t sell? For some homeowners, that question leads to another option — renting instead of selling.

There’s even a term for this: an accidental landlord. These are homeowners who tried to sell but didn’t get the price they wanted, so they rent their home out until market conditions improve. And right now, the number of accidental landlords is on the rise. With higher interest rates and affordability challenges slowing down buyer activity, some listings in Jamul and across San Diego County are sitting longer than expected.

But before you switch gears, it’s important to think it through. Becoming a landlord comes with far more responsibility (and risk) than most expect. Ask yourself these questions first:

1. Does Your Jamul Home Have Potential as a Rental?

Not every home is cut out for renting. Is your property in a location that typically attracts renters? Would it generate enough rental income to cover your mortgage, taxes, and upkeep? If repairs are needed to make it rental-ready, do you have the time and budget for that?

2. Are You Ready To Be a Landlord?

Renting may sound like passive income, but in reality, it often means handling late-night maintenance calls, chasing down rent payments, and repairing tenant damage between leases. If you’re moving out of state or don’t want the added stress, this may not be the right fit.

3. Have You Factored in the True Costs?

Renting comes with hidden expenses: higher insurance premiums, property management fees, advertising for tenants, and potential months with no rent coming in. These costs add up quickly and can turn what looks like profit into a financial burden.

A Better Alternative for Jamul Sellers

If you’re considering renting simply because your Jamul home didn’t sell, the smarter move may be to revisit your selling strategy. Pricing correctly, updating presentation, or refreshing marketing can make all the difference. With the right adjustments, your home can attract the right buyers and sell for a price that makes sense.

Bottom Line
Before you decide to rent your Jamul property, weigh the true pros and cons. For many homeowners, becoming a landlord isn’t worth the hassle. Instead, lean on a local expert. The Svelling Group with Fathom Realty specializes in Jamul real estate and can help you reposition your listing for success.