Introduction: Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders can upend your life overnight – especially when you own a home in Orlando. If you’re a military homeowner asking, “How do I rent my house during a military relocation?”, you’re not alone. Many service members choose to rent out their Orlando home instead of selling, so they can maintain an investment and have a place to return to. Leasing your single-family house while you’re PCS’ing (or making a similar LHD move) can be financially smart and surprisingly fast with the right approach. This comprehensive guide will walk you through military-specific leasing considerations (like SCRA and military clauses), practical steps and timelines to get your home rented quickly, and tips on property prep, pricing, and choosing a trustworthy property manager. By the end, you’ll know how to secure quality tenants fast – keeping your home in good hands and your mind at ease as you focus on your next duty station.
Deciding to Rent Out Your Orlando Home During a PCS
For many military families, the question arises: sell the house or rent it out during a PCS move? In Orlando’s strong housing market, renting often makes sense. By leasing out your home, you keep building equity while someone else pays the mortgage, and you preserve the option to move back in the future. Orlando’s rental market is robust – roughly 60% of local households rent their home[1] – so there’s plenty of demand if you price and market the property correctly. Plus, holding onto your house means you aren’t forced to sell under a tight PCS timeline. Instead, you can return to it after your service, or continue renting it as a long-term investment.
Another benefit of renting during your military move is the financial stability it provides. With reliable tenants and a solid lease, your home can generate positive cash flow, helping offset housing costs at your new station. Orlando’s single-family rental rates have been strong in recent years, and even with recent market leveling, average rents remain high. For example, as of mid-2025 the average asking rent for a single-family home in Orlando is around $2,010 per month[2]. By renting out your property, you turn it into an income-producing asset instead of leaving it vacant or selling in a rush. Many military landlords find this strategy “secures their home’s financial value” while they serve elsewhere.
Of course, becoming a landlord isn’t without challenges – especially if you’ll be managing it from afar. You’ll need a plan for finding tenants, handling maintenance, and ensuring rent gets paid on time while you’re busy with your military duties. That’s why hiring a property manager (more on that later) is a popular solution for PCS’ing homeowners. But overall, if you want to “secure your home’s financial value while focusing on your next duty station,” leasing out your Orlando home during a PCS is a proven, practical path for many service members.
Legal Protections: SCRA and Military Lease Clauses in Florida
Renting out your home as a military member comes with some unique legal considerations. The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) is a federal law that provides protections and rights to active-duty members in rental situations. As a landlord, the SCRA primarily affects you if your tenant is also military – it ensures you allow lease termination without penalty when a service member tenant has qualifying orders (for example, PCS orders over 35 miles away, deployment over 90 days, etc.)[3][4]. In fact, Florida law codifies this: under Florida Statute §83.682, an active-duty servicemember can terminate their lease with at least 30 days’ written notice if they receive PCS orders moving them 35+ miles away, are discharged, or move into base housing, among other qualifying reasons[4][5]. As a military landlord in Florida, you cannot penalize tenants for an early break under these conditions – no charging extra rent or fees beyond prorated rent up to the break date[6]. Essentially, the SCRA and Florida law ensure that military renters can exit leases due to service requirements without financial fallout, and you as the landlord must honor that.
It’s important to note that a standard “military clause” in a lease is slightly different from the SCRA. The SCRA protections apply automatically by law, whereas a military clause is an additional lease provision (often pre-written or added in) that might extend certain rights or clarify procedures (e.g. requiring 30 days’ notice with a copy of orders)[7][8]. Most Florida leases with military tenants will reference Florida’s statute or include a clause echoing it – but even if not explicitly in the lease, the law still applies and cannot be waived[9]. For your peace of mind, if you end up renting to another service member, just be prepared that they might need to leave mid-lease for new orders. Build this possibility into your planning (for instance, avoid relying on the lease going full term if you know their PCS might change). In practice, many military landlords are understanding of this scenario, and having a good property manager can help you quickly find a new tenant if it happens.
What about your rights as a military homeowner and landlord? This is where something called a “reverse military clause” comes in. If there’s a chance you might get orders back to Orlando (or decide to return post-service) and want to move back into your home, you can consider adding a reverse military clause to the lease. This clause, agreed to by the tenant, states that if you (the military homeowner) are reassigned to the Orlando area, you have the right to terminate the lease and reoccupy your house, typically with a certain amount of notice to the tenant[10][11]. In other words, it’s the mirror image of the usual military clause – it protects the landlord’s ability to get their home back if the military brings you home unexpectedly. For example, one military landlord’s lease might stipulate that “should I receive official orders back to Central Florida, I may terminate this lease with 60 days’ notice to the tenant”. If signed, that provision is legally binding in Florida (there’s no law against it as long as the tenant agrees up front)[12]. This can be a valuable option for returning to your property in the future. However, exercise this clause with caution and fairness – uprooting a tenant is a big deal. Most military homeowners only invoke a reverse clause if absolutely necessary, and they try to give tenants as much time as possible. Still, having it in the lease can give you tremendous peace of mind that you won’t be stuck without a home when you come back from an assignment.
Bottom line: make sure you understand the SCRA and Florida’s military lease laws before renting out your home. They’re there to protect service members (whether that’s you or your tenant) and ensure fair treatment. If you work with a property management company experienced in PCS Orlando property management, they will be well-versed in these laws. The right property manager will draft a lease that includes the appropriate military clauses, so all parties know their rights and obligations. This way, you’ll be compliant with SCRA rental rules in Florida and covered for those “what if” scenarios unique to military life.
Preparing Your Orlando Home for a Fast Rental
Once you decide to rent, it’s time to get your house “rent-ready”. Proper preparation can significantly speed up how fast you lease your Orlando home. Here are key steps to make your single-family home shine for prospective tenants:
Declutter and Clean Thoroughly: Treat this like you would when selling a home. Remove personal items, family photos, and any clutter so the home looks spacious and neutral. Give everything a deep clean – or hire professionals for a top-to-bottom cleaning. Carpets should be steamed, grout scrubbed, walls wiped down, and windows washed. A clean home signals to renters that it’s well cared for, which can justify a higher rent and attract responsible tenants.
Complete Needed Repairs and Maintenance: Walk through your home (or have a property manager do an inspection) and fix any issues that could deter a renter or cause delays. Leaky faucet? Repair it now. AC due for a filter change or tune-up? Handle it before listing. Ensure all appliances are functioning properly. Check that doors and windows lock securely, smoke detectors work, and there are no safety hazards. Taking care of minor repairs and preventative maintenance upfront not only helps your home rent faster but also reduces emergency calls later. A home that’s “move-in ready” will appeal to tenants who want a hassle-free experience.
Boost Curb Appeal: First impressions count. Mow the lawn, trim overgrown shrubs, and edge the walkways. Remove any outdoor clutter or personal lawn décor. Consider freshening up the landscaping with some inexpensive mulch or seasonal flowers. If the exterior paint is peeling or the front door looks worn, a quick touch-up can do wonders. An inviting exterior will draw more interest from drive-by renters and in online photos.
Neutralize and Stage (if needed): If you have very bold wall colors, you might repaint in neutral tones (grays, tans, whites) to broaden appeal. For staging, in a rental context this usually just means ensuring the home is empty (or lightly furnished in a simple, clean way). Most long-term renters prefer an unfurnished home for their own furniture, so plan to clear out your belongings. If you won’t be taking all your furniture with you, put it in storage rather than leaving it in the house unless you specifically intend to offer a furnished rental. A bright, clean, empty (or minimally staged) home allows renters to envision their life there.
Rekey and Secure: One often overlooked prep step – change the locks or have them rekeyed for new tenants. This is a safety must. Also, ensure any security systems, garage codes, etc., can be reset. Military homeowners often care about security, so you might also consider leaving behind any security cameras or systems for the tenants to use (or coordinating with your property manager to manage them). A secure home appeals to quality tenants and protects your property.
Market-Ready Condition: In summary, aim to deliver a home that is hotel clean, maintenance-free, and welcoming on Day 1. The faster a tenant can imagine moving right in, the faster you’ll get applications. Investing a little time and money in upfront prep greatly increases your odds of leasing quickly and avoids hiccups during the move-in inspection.
By getting your property in top shape, you position it to rent out fast and to a great tenant. It also sets the tone that you expect it to be kept in good condition. Many of these prep steps can be done in the weeks leading up to your move. If you’re crunched for time or already left the area, a local property manager or trusted handyman can oversee the work on your behalf. The goal is to hand over a home that’s ready for the next family to love – with no reason for them to hesitate in signing that lease.
Pricing Your Home Right and Attracting Tenants Quickly
Setting the correct rental price is perhaps the single most important factor in how fast your Orlando home will lease. Price it too high, and it will sit vacant; price it too low, and you leave money on the table. The key is to match the market and justify the rent with your home’s features.
Start by getting a comparative market analysis for rentals in your neighborhood. Look at similar single-family homes (same bed/bath count, similar square footage and amenities) that are currently listed or were recently rented. Note their asking rents and how long they took to rent. In Orlando’s current market, data shows that overpricing a home will cause it to rent more slowly, costing you in lost rent for each extra week vacant[13]. Professional property managers emphasize this as well: pricing the home correctly from the outset ensures you attract more interest and get it rented fast[13]. If you overshoot the market by even $100, tenants may pass over your listing and it could languish for weeks. On the flip side, you don’t want to underprice too much and short-change yourself.
A good practice is to consult an expert for a free rental price analysis – many Orlando property management companies (like Ackley Florida Property Management) offer this service. They combine market data and their local expertise to suggest an optimal price that balances speed and income[14]. Remember, the asking rent is often a starting point; if you get many inquiries right away, that’s a sign you priced on target (or even a tad low, which could lead to multiple applications or a choice of highly qualified tenants). If you hear crickets for two weeks, it’s a strong indicator the rent might be too high, and a prompt adjustment could be needed.
Consider the average rental trends: As of August 2025, Orlando single-family rentals average about $2,010/month in asking rent and roughly 46 days on market[2]. If your home is in a very desirable area (say, Lake Nona or near good schools) and in great condition, you might price slightly above the median. If your timeline is urgent (you need a tenant by next month), you might price just below the competition to generate immediate interest. Also account for seasonality – demand is highest in summer when military families (and others) prefer to move; winter holidays generally slow down. If you’re listing in an off-peak time, pricing aggressively (a bit lower) can help get it filled faster.
Beyond price, strategic incentives can also attract tenants quickly. For instance, offering a military discount on the first month’s rent or waiving the application fee for active-duty applicants could draw in fellow service members. Some owners offer a small move-in bonus or include lawn care or pest control in the rent to sweeten the deal. In Florida, where lawns grow year-round, including yard service might make your rental stand out. Just be sure any incentives are clearly noted in your advertising.
Marketing and Advertising Tips
Marketing your Orlando home effectively is the next piece of the puzzle. Here’s how to make sure every potential renter knows about your property:
High-Quality Photos & Virtual Tours: Today’s renters shop online first. As Ackley Florida notes, if your property doesn’t look good online, people won’t bother to visit in person[15]. Use a good camera or hire a pro to take bright, wide-angle photos of every room (and attractive yard shots). Consider a video walkthrough or 360° virtual tour – especially since military families often relocate from out of state and may not be able to tour in person. Properties with professional photos and video tours tend to rent much faster[15]. Show off key features: that open kitchen, the spacious master suite, or your fenced backyard perfect for kids or pets. Don’t forget to highlight any military-friendly aspects (e.g., “easy commute to base” or “VA-approved neighborhood” if applicable).
List on All Major Platforms (Including Military Channels): Post your rental on the big sites like Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, Apartments.com, etc., as well as the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) if possible. Ackley Florida syndicates listings through AppFolio to dozens of websites automatically[16] – leverage these networks for maximum exposure. Crucially, also list on military-specific housing boards. The Department of Defense offers the AHRN (Automated Housing Referral Network) for service members seeking off-base housing. Many property managers will list your home on AHRN to reach the military community[17]. You can as well, if self-managing. Additionally, share in local military spouse Facebook groups or forums (without violating any advertising rules). The more targeted eyes on your listing, the better.
Eye-Catching Yard Sign: While online is dominant, don’t underestimate the classic “For Rent sign in the yard (if allowed by your HOA). Since you’re aiming to lease quickly, a sign can alert neighbors or drive-by tenants who might spread the word. Ensure the sign has a contact number (and ideally mention “Military welcome” if you want to attract military tenants). In Orlando’s tight-knit communities, sometimes a neighbor’s friend or a local military family is looking – a sign makes it easy for them to spot your available home.
Detailed, Honest Description: In your ads, describe the home thoroughly and highlight its best features: e.g. “4 bed/2 bath single-family home in Hunters Creek – 15 minutes from base, pet-friendly, updated kitchen, large fenced yard, two-car garage, available immediately.” Mention if it’s in a great school district or close to parks/shopping. Also note any special lease clauses up front (for instance, if you intend to include a reverse military clause, you might say “Military landlord – flexible lease terms for military tenants, inquire for details”). Being transparent and enthusiastic in your listing attracts tenants faster and sets proper expectations.
Be Responsive and Ready to Show: Once inquiries come in, respond quickly. If you’re still local, be prepared to show the home at convenient times (even evenings or weekends). If you’ve already PCS’d, ensure you’ve arranged for a property manager or someone local to show the home on short notice. Quick communication and availability can be the difference between landing a great tenant or losing them to another rental. Many military renters also operate on tight timelines, so prompt responses are crucial.
By pricing wisely and marketing aggressively from Day 1, you increase your chances of finding a tenant before you even finish packing your bags. The goal is to have a signed lease as close as possible to your move-out date so you minimize vacancy days. Next, we’ll look at a timeline that ties all these prep and marketing steps together.
Timeline: How to Lease Your Home Fast (A PCS Countdown)
Every PCS timeline is different – some lucky folks get many months’ notice, while others scramble in a few weeks. Ideally, as soon as you suspect orders are coming, you’ll start planning to lease your home. Below is a general timeline with steps to get your Orlando house rented quickly. Adjust the timing as needed for your situation:
60+ Days Before PCS: Research and decision time. The moment you know (or strongly suspect) you’re relocating, decide if renting out is your plan. Begin contacting Orlando property managers for consultations or at least gather market data. If you’re going to self-manage, educate yourself on Florida landlord laws (security deposit rules, etc.) and start prepping mentally for the work involved. This is also the time to notify your mortgage company and insurance that the home will become a rental (ensure you have proper landlord insurance coverage). If you plan to hire a property management company, select one now so they can guide you the rest of the way. It’s also a good time to tentatively map out your home prep projects – list repairs or improvements you’ll tackle once orders are in hand.
45 Days Before PCS: Start the physical prep of the home. Begin making repairs that you identified. Trim that tree, fix the porch light, repaint that bright pink bedroom to a neutral color. If you have orders in writing by now, you can feel confident to spend on any upgrades (like maybe replacing old carpet or outdated appliances) that could boost rent and appeal. Also, schedule professional services (carpet cleaners, landscapers) for about a week after your household goods are packed – you want the home to be freshly spruced up right before showings begin. During this window, it’s wise to also inform a trusted neighbor or two that you’ll be renting out your home – they can keep an eye out during the vacancy and possibly refer interested renters.
30 Days Before PCS: List your home for rent. Around a month out (assuming you have at least that much notice), you should have the home looking its best for photos and listings. Take high-quality photos now (or have your property manager do it). Then get the listing out there on all platforms with an availability date around your move-out. Pro tip: If you’re still living in the home, emphasize in the ad that you’re a military owner moving soon, and state when the home will be available. Some tenants might be flexible or even looking for a date a few weeks out, which aligns with yours. At this 30-day mark, also ensure you’ve nailed down all lease terms with your property manager: Will you allow pets? (Military families often have them, and allowing pets increases your renter pool.) What lease length? (Perhaps consider an 12-month lease with a clause that if you return after a year you can occupy – or simply plan to renew with tenants if you’re gone longer.) Having these details set will make the application process smoother when applicants start coming in.
21–14 Days Before PCS: Conduct showings and screen tenants. In these weeks, you’ll likely get inquiries if your price and marketing are on point. Be prepared for back-to-back evening showings or a weekend open house. If using a property manager, they will handle scheduling and walkthroughs (often they have an on-call leasing agent dedicated to this[18]). As applications come in, screening is critical – at this stage, speed is important but you don’t want to rush into a lease with an unqualified tenant. Perform or have the manager perform thorough background and credit checks, verify income, and call previous landlord references. It’s worth taking a couple of days to vet people. Many Orlando property managers pride themselves on rigorous screening (Ackley Florida, for instance, boasts a 98% on-time rent payment rate due to their strict tenant screening and rent collection process[19]). Aim to select a tenant who not only can move in when you need, but who will pay reliably and take care of your home. With military applicants, you might weigh factors like their rotation length (will they be in the area at least a year?) and stability (active duty can be very stable income). Don’t discriminate illegally, of course, but these are practical considerations when choosing the best applicant.
10–7 Days Before PCS: Finalize the lease and prepare for handover. By about a week before your move, you should ideally have a signed lease in hand with the new tenants and a set move-in date (which could be the day after you vacate or very close). Collect any pro-rated rent and security deposit as required by Florida law (deposits typically must be kept in a Florida bank escrow – your property manager will handle that, or you must set up an account). Now is the time to do a move-out inspection for yourself. Document your home’s condition with photos or video after you’ve emptied it and cleaned. This protects you later when assessing any tenant damages versus pre-existing conditions. Then, ensure keys (multiple sets), garage remotes, HOA access cards, etc., are all gathered for the new tenant or given to the manager.
Moving Day (0 Days): As you PCS out, do a final walkthrough with your property manager or tenant (if timing works) and hand over the keys. This can be emotional – you’re leaving your home in someone else’s hands – but with preparation, it can also be seamless. Go over any important notes with the tenant: how to work the sprinkler system, trash pickup days, any quirks of the house. Provide contact info for whoever will manage the home (you or the property manager). Then lock up, wish them well, and head off knowing your home is set.
After You’ve Moved: Follow up within the first week or two to address any issues the tenant discovered upon move-in. Little things might pop up (a GFCI outlet that tripped, etc.). If you have a property manager, they’ll take care of this and just inform you. Ensure the tenant knows the rent payment process (most modern managers have online portals for easy rent collection[20][21]). Also, double-check that you update your address for property tax bills, HOA correspondence, etc., to either yourself at the new duty station or C/O your property manager so nothing gets missed.
By following a structured timeline like this, you increase the odds of going from “orders in hand” to “lease signed” in a smooth progression. Many military landlords in Orlando manage to transition a home to renters with virtually no gap between their own move-out and the tenant’s move-in. With coordination and perhaps a little luck, you can achieve that too – meaning you won’t be paying an extra month’s mortgage out of pocket.
Graph: Central Florida rental market trends in August 2025, showing steady rents and average ~46 days on market.
Orlando Rental Market Trends and Military Housing Demand
Orlando’s rental market in 2025 is fairly balanced and resilient – great news for you as a landlord. Homes are renting in a reasonable timeframe and demand is sustained by the area’s growth (and by incoming military and government personnel). On average, single-family rentals in Orlando take about 46 days to find a tenant as of late 2025[22]. This equates to roughly 6–7 weeks on the market, which is considered a normal pace. It’s actually slightly faster than the Tampa Bay area (home of MacDill AFB), where average days on market is around 48 days[23]. In other words, Orlando rentals are moving just a bit quicker than some neighboring Central Florida markets, indicating solid demand. Pricing has leveled off recently (0% month-over-month rent change, reflecting a stable market rather than a hot spike)[24]. For landlords, this means you likely won’t be swamped with dozens of applicants overnight, but if you price right you should get a steady stream of interest and be able to rent your home within a month or so – if not faster.
A big factor supporting Orlando’s rental demand is the constant influx of people. Central Florida sees strong population growth from civilian migration, and layered on top of that is the military presence in the broader region. While Orlando itself doesn’t have a giant base like some cities, it is surrounded by military hubs that contribute to the housing market. Patrick Space Force Base (formerly Patrick AFB) on the east Space Coast, MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, and the Naval Support Activity Orlando (a smaller Navy installation in east Orlando) collectively bring thousands of service members, DoD civilians, and contractors into Central Florida. These folks need housing, and many choose to live off base in communities like Orlando, Kissimmee, Melbourne, and beyond. For example, MacDill AFB employs roughly 15,000 military and civilian personnel, and while some live on base, the majority live off base in the surrounding cities[25]. Patrick SFB similarly has over 10,000 combined personnel (active duty, families, contractors) and very limited on-base housing, meaning many reside in nearby towns within commuting distance to Orlando’s metro area[26]. Even NSA Orlando, though small (only ~120 active duty plus a couple thousand support staff), has no on-base housing at all, so virtually all those families rent or buy homes in Orlando’s neighborhoods[27].
The takeaway is that military moves are constantly happening into and around Orlando, not just out of it. So while you PCS out, another military family might be arriving who needs a home just like yours. Central Florida’s defense and space industry (with Patrick SFB and the simulation command in Orlando) also brings in many short-term assignment personnel who prefer to rent. As a result, demand for single-family rentals remains healthy around Orlando and military-friendly areas. Homes near good schools, or within a reasonable drive of bases (even an hour’s drive, which is not uncommon in Florida), tend to get snapped up. If your Orlando home is within commuting range of Patrick SFB or an easy couple hours from MacDill for someone whose spouse works in Orlando, play that up in your marketing.
It’s also worth noting seasonal patterns: Most military PCS moves happen in late spring and summer to minimize school disruptions. Orlando’s rental peak season aligns with that – inquiries tend to spike from May through August[28][29]. Listing your home during this window can result in faster leasing at perhaps slightly higher rent. Conversely, if you list in the dead of winter (holidays), it might take a bit longer. But fear not – Central Florida doesn’t have a true “off-season” like cold climates do. People move year-round here; even snowbirds and other transients keep things moving[30]. The mild winters mean rentals still show well and draw interest, just possibly a tad less than summer. Being aware of these trends allows you to strategize: for instance, if your PCS is in December, maybe consider a slightly longer lease (15 or 18 months) so that it ends in spring instead of the next winter (some property managers avoid winter lease expirations for this reason).
In summary, Orlando’s rental outlook for landlords is positive. There’s a steady pool of renters – from local families to incoming military and contractors – looking for quality homes. By tapping into that market with a well-prepared, well-priced listing, you stand a strong chance of finding a tenant within weeks. Many military landlords are pleasantly surprised that their home in Central Florida doesn’t sit empty long at all. And with companies like Ackley Florida reporting lower-than-average vacancy rates due to proactive marketing[31], professional help can further tilt the odds in your favor. Orlando may not have the frenetic rental pace of downtown metros, but it offers something better for you: reliable demand without extreme volatility. That stability is exactly what you want when entrusting your home to the rental market during your military journey.
Choosing the Right Property Management Company
Leasing your home fast and managing it from afar is infinitely easier if you have a competent property management company on your side. As a busy service member, you likely don’t have the bandwidth to field 2 A.M. maintenance calls or chase down late rent while you’re stationed across the country (or overseas). A good Orlando property manager will handle the day-to-day landlord duties, giving you peace of mind that your home and tenants are being looked after professionally.
Here are some tips for choosing the right property management company – especially with a military move in mind:
Experience with Military Landlords: Look for a property manager who has helped other military families in similar situations. Some companies even offer special “military deployment” programs or discounts for active-duty owners[32][33]. They understand the urgency and stress of PCS moves and can expedite getting your home rent-ready and occupied. For example, a military-focused manager will list your home on AHRN and coordinate quickly with military housing offices to find tenants[17]. They’ll also be familiar with SCRA, military clauses, and perhaps more flexible in structuring leases if you might return[34]. During interviews, ask, “Have you managed rentals for military clients before? How do you handle PCS situations?” Their answers will tell you if they grasp your unique needs.
Strong Marketing and Low Vacancy Track Record: Since your goal is to lease fast, you need a manager with a proven marketing system. Inquire about their average days on market for rentals and how they advertise. Top Orlando managers will blast your listing on dozens of sites, use professional photos and virtual tours, and even network with relocation agents[35][15]. They should have an on-call leasing agent to show the property promptly to prospects. The best companies proactively try to minimize vacancy – because they know every day empty is money lost for you[36][37]. During your search, read reviews or testimonials for any mentions of how quickly (or slowly) a company filled other owners’ properties.
Tenant Screening and Rent Collection: As a landlord, you want quality tenants and on-time rent – especially when you rely on that rent to cover your mortgage. Look for a manager with rigorous screening standards (credit checks, income verification, rental history, etc.) and a low eviction rate. Many firms advertise their screening successes, for example boasting 98% on-time payment rates due to careful tenant selection[19]. Additionally, ask how rent is collected and disbursed. The ideal answer is an online portal where tenants pay electronically, and direct deposit to you. No snail mail checks to worry about. Also confirm the manager’s policy on late payments and enforcement – you want someone who’s firm but fair, and who will handle any necessary evictions per Florida law so you don’t have to get involved.
Maintenance & Inspections: Your home’s upkeep is critical while you’re gone. A reliable property manager will have a network of vetted contractors and even in-house maintenance for quick fixes. They should conduct move-in and move-out inspections with documentation (photos, reports)[38], as well as periodic checks during the tenancy (some do 6-month or annual inspections to catch issues early). Ask about their maintenance process: Do they offer a 24/7 emergency line for tenants? (This is huge – you don’t want a 3am call about a burst pipe; let them handle it.) Many top companies do have 24/7 service for emergencies[39]. Ensure they won’t nickel-and-dime you on every minor repair – some have spending thresholds and will consult you beyond that amount, which is good for controlling costs. Essentially, you want to know your property will be kept in good shape and that any problems will be resolved promptly without you having to coordinate from afar.
Fee Structure and Services: Understand the management fees and what’s included. In Orlando, typical full-service property management runs ~8-10% of the monthly rent, plus perhaps a one-time leasing fee (often equal to one month’s rent or a percentage) for finding a tenant. Some also charge lease renewal fees or miscellaneous admin fees. Make sure they outline everything. The cheapest company isn’t always the best – often, you get what you pay for. It might be worth a slightly higher fee for a company that has stellar service, great communication, and lower vacancy rates. Do they offer any guarantees? (e.g., some might guarantee a tenant placement for X months or they’ll re-lease for free, etc.) Also confirm if they handle all tenant communications, legal notices, accounting (you should get monthly statements and an end-of-year summary for taxes).
Communication and Online Access: Since you’ll be away, it’s crucial that the manager communicates well and gives you visibility. Most modern firms have an owner portal where you can log in, see rent payments, repair requests, and financial statements. This transparency is reassuring – you can literally monitor your property from a laptop or phone. Additionally, you want a manager who will keep you updated, but not bother you with every tiny detail. They should consult you for important decisions or major repairs, but handle the routine stuff independently. During initial talks, gauge their responsiveness. If they’re slow to answer your questions now, that’s a red flag. You need someone who treats you as a valued client, not a number.
In essence, choosing a property manager is about trust and competence. This company will be your surrogate “you” taking care of your home. Take the time to interview a few, read reviews, and even ask for referrals from fellow military families if possible. A great property manager will not only lease your Orlando home faster (often significantly cutting down vacancy time) but also manage it so well that you truly have nothing to worry about while you fulfill your military duties.
How Ackley Florida Property Management Supports Military Landlords
When it comes to managing your Orlando property remotely, Ackley Florida Property Management is a prime example of a company that excels in helping military homeowners. Ackley has been in the Orlando property management business since 1984 and currently manages an impressive portfolio of nearly 500 rental properties across Orlando and surrounding areas[40]. Many of those are single-family homes like yours, entrusted to Ackley by owners who want reliable, hands-off management. Here’s how Ackley Florida (and companies like them) make life easier for military landlords:
Fast, Effective Leasing: Ackley understands that “time is money” when your home is vacant. They assign a dedicated leasing specialist to get your property rented quickly[18]. This includes aggressive marketing on all major platforms (Zillow, MLS, etc.), eye-catching yard signage, and syndicating your listing online for maximum exposure[35][41]. They also take professional photos and even 3D video tours of your home to attract out-of-town renters[15] – a huge plus for military families moving from elsewhere. Thanks to these efforts, Ackley’s properties often rent faster than the market average. They know how to time listings to avoid long vacancies and even advise on optimal lease start dates (for instance, avoiding winter downtime)[37]. In short, Ackley’s marketing muscle ensures no time is wasted in finding you a good tenant.
Rigorous Tenant Screening: As mentioned earlier, the quality of your tenant is crucial. Ackley Florida Property Management prides itself on placing high-quality tenants. They conduct extensive background checks, credit and income verification, rental history, and more[42][43]. In fact, Ackley boasts that about 98% of their tenants pay on time – a metric that speaks to their screening and rent collection effectiveness[19]. For a military landlord, this means you can count on steady, timely rent deposits and fewer headaches. Ackley’s tenants also tend to take care of the homes; with such screening, the risk of property damage or lease violations drops dramatically. And if an issue ever arises (say a tenant starts paying late), Ackley handles enforcement and if needed, the eviction process in accordance with Florida law[44] – sparing you the stress.
Hands-On Property Care: Ackley Florida offers full-service management, which covers everything from move-in inspections to emergency maintenance. They perform detailed inspections with documentation at tenant move-in and move-out, protecting you from disputes by logging the home’s condition[38]. They also do periodic property check-ups during the lease term to catch any problems or lease breaches early. Maintenance-wise, Ackley has long-standing relationships with licensed vendors and even in-house maintenance coordinators[45][46]. So if the AC breaks in July, they’ll dispatch a trusted technician immediately – often at pre-negotiated fair rates – and oversee the repair. Importantly, they maintain a 24/7 emergency hotline for issues like flooding or electrical outages[39], so your tenant is never left hanging (and you’re never woken up at odd hours). Ackley’s goal is to protect your asset and keep your property in excellent shape, handling repairs quickly to avoid further damage[47]. They even enforce lease terms like ensuring tenants replace A/C filters or keep the home clean, which prevents wear-and-tear[47]. All of this means your home will likely be in the same great condition when you return as when you left it.
Tech-Savvy and Transparent: Being remote, you’ll appreciate Ackley’s modern systems. They use an online owner portal (via AppFolio software) where you can log in anytime to see financial statements, maintenance updates, and even property inspection reports. Ackley collects rent electronically from tenants and then direct-deposits into your account, typically by the 10th of each month, so you’re never wondering where the check is[38][48]. They also provide monthly and year-end accounting, making your tax prep easier. Communication is another strong suit – Ackley’s team is known for responsive and clear communication with owners. If a significant repair is needed, they’ll contact you with options and a recommendation, and you make the final call (unless it’s an emergency fix under a pre-authorized dollar amount). Essentially, you stay informed but not burdened by the day-to-day minutiae.
Legal and Lease Compliance: Ackley Florida stays up-to-date on all Florida landlord-tenant laws and ensures your lease and practices are compliant[49][50]. This is vital, as laws do change (for instance, recent tweaks to Florida’s notice requirements or rent increase laws). They’ve got you covered so you won’t inadvertently violate something. If your tenant ever has an issue or complaint, Ackley addresses it professionally, keeping things civil and documented. They handle security deposit escrow and eventual return/claims by the book, which shields you from legal disputes. Moreover, if you opted for any special military clauses, Ackley will execute those properly – for example, if you have a reverse military clause and need the tenant to vacate due to your return, they would communicate and manage that process delicately and lawfully. Their expertise means no legal surprises for you.
Peace of Mind: Perhaps the greatest benefit Ackley Florida Property Management provides military landlords is intangible – it’s peace of mind. Knowing you have a trusted partner looking after your home allows you to focus on your mission and family, rather than worrying about a house back in Orlando. Ackley is family-owned and has over 40 years in Central Florida, and many of their clients have stuck with them for years (a testament to satisfaction)[51][52]. They treat your home like it’s their own investment, which for a landlord is priceless. If anything goes wrong, they’ve “seen it all” and have systems to solve it[53]. As one of Orlando’s premier property managers, Ackley has the local knowledge to maximize your rental income, minimize problems, and essentially serve as your boots-on-the-ground while you’re away serving elsewhere.
In summary, Ackley Florida Property Management (or a similar high-quality firm if you choose another) can be your secret weapon in leasing your Orlando home fast and managing it smoothly. They handle the heavy lifting – from advertising to tenant screening to maintenance – so you don’t have to. This level of support is ideal for military homeowners who may be thousands of miles away and busy with duty. With Ackley’s help, you can rest assured that “your home’s financial value is secure while you focus on your next duty station,” as the prompt says. Many military landlords find that the management fee is well worth the value of avoiding vacancies, bad tenants, or legal pitfalls. Essentially, Ackley keeps your Orlando home earning income and in top condition until you’re ready to return.
Conclusion: Smooth Sailing for Your Orlando Home
Relocating for duty is never easy, but by leasing out your Orlando home with careful planning, you can turn a challenging PCS into a positive opportunity. With the SCRA protections and the right lease clauses in place, your interests are safeguarded whether you’re the landlord or you end up renting to another service member. By prepping your property thoroughly and pricing it competitively, you set the stage for a quick rental – military tenants and local families alike will be drawn to a home that’s clean, functional, and priced right (remember: no need to stress about an extended vacancy if you follow the guidance on pricing and marketing[13]). The Orlando and Central Florida rental market is on your side, with steady demand bolstered by ongoing military and civilian influx[24][25].
Perhaps most importantly, you don’t have to do this alone. Engaging a professional property management company – especially one attuned to military moves – can make the process virtually hands-free for you. Companies like Ackley Florida Property Management exemplify how your home can be expertly leased and cared for in your absence, from conducting virtual tours for prospective tenants to depositing your rent electronically each month. With their help, your role as a landlord can be “professional and reassuring,” rather than an extra burden. You can deploy or move to your new station knowing a team is handling tenant communications, maintenance issues, and lease compliance back home.
In a few short weeks, you can go from wondering “Can I really rent out my house while I’m deployed or PCS’ing?” to having a signed lease and a great tenant moving in – all while you’re packing up for your next assignment. The key is to start early, leverage the resources available (like military housing networks and experienced property managers), and approach this mission with the same diligence you would any military operation: get the intel (market data), secure the perimeter (legal and prep work), and deploy the plan (marketing and management).
Your Orlando home has been your sanctuary; now it can become a source of income and stability for you. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll not only lease your home fast – you’ll lease it smart. And when the time comes for you to return to Central Florida, either at your next assignment or post-military life, you’ll have a well-maintained home (or a valuable asset) waiting for you. That’s financial security and peace of mind that every service member deserves. Safe travels, and here’s to a successful leasing and a smooth PCS move!
Sources: MilitaryByOwner, Florida Statutes, Ackley Florida Property Management Blog and Website, Graystone Investment Group rental market report, Realty Masters Pensacola blog, Real Property Management Premier blog, and more, as cited throughout the article.
[1] [31] [37] [44] Orlando Property Management for Single-Family Homes: Complete Guide for Owners
[2] [22] [23] [24] August 2025 Rental Market Report:Tampa Bay & Central Florida
https://graystoneig.com/articles/august-2025-rental-market-report-tampa-bay-central-florida
[3] Renting to US Military Tenants
https://www.rpmpremierfl.com/what-landlords-need-to-know-about-renting-to-us-military-tenants
[4] [5] [6] [9] Statutes & Constitution :View Statutes : Online Sunshine
[7] Using your Florida Military Clause
