Home Renting Guide for First-time Military Landlords in Salt Lake

Making the move from active-duty service to managing a rental property can be a bit of a juggling act. If you’re a military member relocating from Salt Lake City, you’re probably weighing the decision to sell or rent out your home. With Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders coming your way, it can feel overwhelming to make the right choice. Renting out your home, however, can be a smart financial move. 

Let’s break down what you need to know in this Home Renting Guide for First-Time Military Landlords in Salt Lake.

Making the Shift: From Homeowner to Military Landlord

When you're given PCS orders, you’re in a tough spot. Should you sell, or should you rent out your home? Renting has become the more common option for military families, especially in Salt Lake, where the demand for rental properties is high.

According to a study made by LMI Government Consulting for the Office of the Secretary of Defense, 38% of military members are homeowners, and another 32% rent their homes. It’s a way to generate income and build wealth long-term.

Here’s why military families decide to rent:

• Temporary assignment with plans to return
• Poor market conditions for selling
• Wanting to generate passive income
• Keeping the property as a long-term investment

First-Time Military Landlords' Home Renting Guide in Salt Lake

So, you’ve decided to rent. First, ask yourself a few key questions to make sure you’re ready for the responsibilities of being a landlord:

• Do I plan to come back to Salt Lake?
• Can I manage my rental property remotely?
• Do I have a reliable local property manager?

Salt Lake's rental market is in a great spot right now, with an overall occupancy rate of 92.1%, meaning demand is high. But to take advantage of this, you need to ensure your property is in good shape and ready for renters.

Prepping Your Property for Rent

Before you list your rental, spend some time getting it in shape. This is where you can really make a difference. Tenants are looking for a home that’s clean, functional, and easy to move into.

Here’s a checklist to get started:

• Declutter the space and remove personal items
• Complete necessary repairs (especially plumbing, HVAC, or roofing issues)
• Freshen up paint, carpets, and landscaping
• Review Salt Lake housing codes to make sure you’re compliant
• Verify safety features like smoke detectors, secure locks, and appliances

A professional pre-rental inspection can help you avoid headaches down the line.

Know Your Responsibilities as a Landlord

As a military landlord, you’re taking on a lot more than collecting rent each month. Utah has its own set of landlord-tenant laws, and it’s important you understand your duties. Some responsibilities you’ll need to be mindful of include:

• Drafting a clear lease agreement
• Setting a fair rent price based on similar properties in your area
• Managing security deposits (Utah law allows up to one month’s rent)
• Maintaining the home and addressing tenant repair requests
• Responding to tenant requests promptly to maintain a good relationship

Documenting your property’s condition before move-in and move-out is also key—photos or a video walkthrough will protect you if issues arise later.

Lease Agreements and Security Deposits: Know the Rules

Your lease is your legal protection. Make sure it covers everything—from rent payments to maintenance responsibilities. Salt Lake’s rental market is strong, but you still want to ensure your lease is airtight.

• Security deposits: In Utah, landlords can charge up to one month's rent for a deposit, which must be returned within 30 days after the tenant moves out.
• Setting rent: In 2025, the average rent for a 3-bedroom home in Salt Lake is around $2,550/month. Research the going rate in your area to stay competitive.

Why You Need a Property Manager

Renting a property while juggling your military duties and PCS orders can be overwhelming. If you’re stationed elsewhere or overseas, managing your property from a distance can feel like a full-time job.

This is where a property manager like TierOne Real Estate comes in handy. A property manager can:

• Advertise your rental and screen tenants
• Collect rent and security deposits
• Handle maintenance and repair requests
• Respond to tenant needs 24/7
• Enforce lease terms and manage evictions if needed

While hiring a property manager has a cost, it’s often worth it to avoid the headaches of managing everything from afar.

Managing Tenants Remotely

Thanks to technology, managing your rental property doesn’t require you to be physically present. Tools like online rent collection, video inspections, and tenant portals make it easier to stay in the loop, even from far away.

But when an emergency happens—like a broken pipe in the middle of the night—having a local expert to handle repairs is a lifesaver.

What Happens When Plans Change?

Things don’t always go as planned. Maybe you were planning to come back, but PCS orders change, or your personal goals shift. Whatever happens, you have options:

• Keep renting and build wealth over time
• Sell if the market conditions are right
• Move back in if you return to Salt Lake

Every year, review your goals and your finances. Your options will depend on what works best for your situation.

Common Mistakes First-Time Military Landlords Make

Even the most well-intentioned landlords can make mistakes. Here are the most common missteps to avoid:

• Not screening tenants properly, leading to issues with rent or property damage
• Delaying repairs leads to bigger costs later
• Having a poorly written lease can lead to confusion
• Failing to understand Utah landlord laws can cost you time and money

Proper planning and support can help you avoid these mistakes.

Final Tips for Success

Renting out your home for the first time can be a lot to manage. But with the right steps in place, you can turn this process into a positive experience for both you and your tenant.

• Keep track of finances and repair records
• Review your lease regularly and update terms as needed
• Understand your legal obligations
• Partner with a reliable property manager

By staying organized and getting the right help, you’ll set yourself up for rental success.

Ready to Get Started? Contact TierOne Real Estate

Renting out your Salt Lake property doesn’t have to be stressful. With TierOne Real Estate, you’ll have the support of a local team experienced in managing military landlords’ needs. From tenant screening to repairs, we handle it all so you can focus on your mission.

Ready to learn more? Check out our Military Discount Program and see how we can help make renting your home easier.

FAQs

How can I attract military tenants to my rental property in Salt Lake City?

To attract military tenants, it's helpful to furnish the property, as military families often relocate quickly and may prefer furnished homes to minimize the hassle of moving. Additionally, ensuring the property is child-friendly can be a plus, with features like a small playground or swing set appealing to families with young children. You can also promote your property through military-specific channels, such as MilitaryByOwner.com, and by connecting with Housing Services Offices at local military installations to reach potential renters directly. These steps can help make your property stand out to military families looking for housing in Salt Lake City.

What are the tax implications of renting out my home as a military landlord?

Renting out your property can have a few tax considerations. One of the key factors is depreciation, where you can depreciate the value of the rental property over time, reducing your taxable rental income. Additionally, expenses related to the rental, such as mortgage interest, property taxes, and maintenance costs, are typically deductible. However, if you sell the property, you may be subject to capital gains tax, though certain exclusions may apply if the property was your primary residence. It’s a good idea to consult with a tax professional who understands military rental properties to ensure you're maximizing your benefits and minimizing liabilities.

What resources are available for military landlords in Utah?

Utah offers a variety of resources for military landlords. The Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs provides valuable information on housing benefits and services for veterans and service members. Additionally, TierOne Real Estate LLC offers property management services, including a Military Discount Program, which can help military landlords manage their rental properties more efficiently in Salt Lake City. Lastly, platforms like MilitaryByOwner connect military families with rental properties, including those in Utah, making it easier for military landlords to find tenants. Leveraging these resources can help you navigate the responsibilities of being a military landlord in Utah with more ease.

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