Ex-SD. You make too much sense. An empty house costs a lot of money in holding costs and rental income not received.
I have a friend (not close) who is selling his house. Spent money repainting it and laying hardward floors. He bought in 2003, moved to LA, and rented out the house. The house does not cash flow so that’s why he’s selling.
The house is sitting on the market bleeding money everyday. He complains about the market. So I say “maybe, the market will pickup in the Spring.” If he’s listening to me, he’ll catch the falling knife. But what is one to say in polite conversation? (good thing I have Piggington as an outlet :))