Do I need to cancel future rental reservations before selling?

In most cases, you do not need to immediately cancel future rental reservations before selling a vacation rental, but how those bookings are handled should be part of a clear strategy. On 30A, many buyers actually see existing reservations as a benefit because they provide immediate income and demonstrate the property’s rental performance. Keeping future bookings in place can make the home more attractive to investor buyers, especially if the reservations, rates, and management setup are well documented. That said, there are situations where adjusting or limiting future bookings makes sense, particularly when buyer demand increases, and access for showings becomes more important.

This is where Kadi Higginbotham’s guidance is especially valuable. Kadi has a strong understanding of both the sales side and the vacation rental dynamics unique to the 30A market. She helps sellers evaluate whether their buyer pool is more likely to be investors, second home buyers, or primary residents and then tailors the rental strategy accordingly. For investor-focused listings, Kadi often recommends keeping reservations intact and clearly communicating how those bookings would transfer to a new owner. For lifestyle or second home buyers, she may suggest blocking dates further out to allow flexibility for showings and future owner use.

Kadi Higginbotham also emphasizes the importance of transparency. Buyers should know exactly which reservations exist, what income is attached to them, and how cancellations would be handled if required. In some cases, sellers choose to honor short-term bookings and block future months once under contract. This approach protects rental income while still keeping the transaction smooth. With Kadi’s market insight and clear planning, sellers can avoid unnecessary cancellations, reduce friction during negotiations, and position their property in a way that aligns with buyer expectations and maximizes overall value.