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What Is an Accidental Landlord?
The Denver rental market is shifting—and a new kind of property owner is helping drive that change: the accidental landlord.
An accidental landlord is someone who never planned to rent out their home, but circumstances led them there. Maybe they couldn’t sell in a cooling housing market. Maybe they landed that dream job in another city but don’t want to give up their low mortgage rate. Or perhaps they inherited a home they’re not quite ready to sell.
Whatever the reason, more Denver homeowners are entering the rental market unexpectedly—and this wave of new landlords is reshaping the landscape for both renters and investors.
More Homes on the Rental Market
Every home that doesn’t sell is now being listed for rent instead. That means more supply, more competition, and longer days on market for owners.
At Walters & Company, we’re seeing this trend firsthand. Many of our newest clients are first-time landlords—people who are navigating leasing, tenant screening, and property maintenance for the very first time.
This influx of new rental homes is good news for renters, who suddenly have more options than in previous years. But for landlords, it means adapting quickly to stand out in a more competitive environment.
Softer Rents and More Concessions
When supply grows faster than demand, rents tend to level out. Across the country, we’re seeing slower rent growth and even price reductions in some areas.
In Denver, landlords are offering concessions like discounted deposits, move-in specials, or renewals without rent increases. It’s a strategy shift from the past few years, when the market favored property owners.
For tenants, it’s an opportunity. For landlords, it’s a reminder that success in this environment depends on accurate pricing, quick response times, and a proactive leasing strategy.
What This Means for the Denver Market
Accidental landlords aren’t just a short-term trend—they’re becoming part of the market’s DNA. And while their presence creates new challenges, it also keeps the Denver rental market fluid, diverse, and adaptable.
At Walters & Company, we’re tracking these trends closely—monitoring traffic-to-lease conversions, days on market, and pricing shifts—to help our owners stay ahead of the curve. Our team adjusts strategies in real time to make sure properties don’t sit vacant and that each owner gets the best possible return.
The Bottom Line
As the resale market works through its backlog, some of these accidental landlords may return to selling—but many will stay. For now, expect more homeowners to “test the waters” of property management and more competition for existing landlords.
Whether you’re a new landlord finding your footing or a seasoned investor refining your strategy, Walters & Company Property Management is here to guide you every step of the way.
Call us: (720) 357-6655
Email us: rent@rentgowalters.com
Visit us: www.rentgowalters.com
