A growing number of homeowners are becoming landlords — unintentionally — and they’re starting to have a measurable impact on the rental housing landscape.
These so-called “accidental landlords” are people who, instead of selling their primary residence in a soft housing market, choose to rent it out. It’s a move driven by high mortgage rates and low homebuyer demand, leaving many homeowners unable to find suitable buyers.
“I never thought I’d be a landlord,” said Sarah Jenkins, a teacher in Denver who rented out her townhouse after her new job required a move. “But with the rates and market, it just made more sense to rent than to sell at a loss.”
Industry data shows accidental landlords now account for an estimated 12% of new rental listings nationwide — a significant uptick from 7% two years ago.
This shift is helping to ease pressure in tight rental markets, particularly in suburbs where corporate landlords have a smaller presence. The new supply is often priced more affordably and comes with more flexible lease terms, something tenants say they appreciate.
Still, some housing advocates caution that accidental landlords may not always understand their legal responsibilities. “Without training or experience, some may unknowingly violate tenant rights,” said Melissa Alvarez of the National Tenants Union.
Despite the risks, the trend shows no signs of slowing. With housing markets remaining uncertain, the rental market is increasingly shaped by those who never intended to join it.