With or without tenants
Selling with a sitting tenant avoids an empty period and suits investor buyers, though some pay less. To sell with vacant possession in England, you'll need to use the selling ground under Section 8, which has minimum notice periods and timing restrictions early in a tenancy. Check the current rules on GOV.UK before serving notice.
Capital Gains Tax
Your gain is the sale price minus buying and selling costs and capital improvements. Estimate it with the CGT calculator and read CGT on selling a rental.
Steps in order
- Get a valuation and check your mortgage's early repayment charges.
- Decide tenant-in-situ or vacant possession.
- Instruct an agent and a conveyancer.
- Keep records of purchase and improvement costs for the CGT calculation.
- After completion: report and pay CGT within 60 days, then include the sale on your tax return.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Capital Gains Tax rates and allowances
- GOV.UK: Report and pay Capital Gains Tax on UK property
- GOV.UK: Implementing the Renters' Rights Act 2025, roadmap
Sources last checked 10 November 2026. See all our sources and how we keep pages up to date.
This guide explains general rules for individual landlords in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. It isn't personal tax advice. Check GOV.UK or speak to a qualified adviser before you act.