The owner of a property who does not reside on that property is considered a non-occupant owner. This individual typically delegates the management and maintenance responsibilities to a property manager or other designated agent. For example, an individual who inherits a house in another state and rents it out, relying on a local company to handle tenant relations and upkeep, fits this description.
This arrangement is common and can be beneficial in various situations. It allows individuals to invest in real estate without being tied to a specific location, facilitating diversification of investment portfolios. Historically, this has been prevalent in areas with seasonal populations or high rental demand, where individuals purchase properties as investments rather than primary residences. The practice also permits individuals to maintain ownership of properties after relocating for work or other personal reasons.