Bursting the Bubble:Not all Tenants are Dream Tenants

As a property manager or even a landlord that rents out just a handful of properties, when it comes time to fill a unit with new tenants, you often dream of the perfect tenant rolling right in and being the answer to all your rental-dreams.

There are of course precautions you can take to reduce the risk and increase the chances of finding your dream tenant (and of course meticulous screening doesn’t hurt), but what do you do when you have no choice but to consider eviction?

The first thing to do is really asses whether eviction is your only solution. The eviction process can be exhausting and it is always preferable to settle any disputes directly with the tenant. If no other solution presents itself, you must first ensure that you are operating within the legal framework of your state laws.

Most states have lengthy eviction processes that require a landlord or property manager to file, and win, and eviction lawsuit or prove other legal precedence that grants them the right to evict a tenant. Prior to reaching the lawsuit phase, you may be required to give written notice, demand leave of premises via legal body etc.

Be sure to always meet your responsibilities as a landlord when dealing with a possible eviction situation, since failing to do so may impact your ability to complete an eviction process. These responsibilities include ensuring that the property is in good repair, that there are no dangerous or life threatening issues, that mold and water issues are nonexistent, and that delicate items are repaired or cleaned as their warranty dictates (such as electric supplies, carpets etc).

When moving forward with the eviction notification, prior to even beginning the legal phase, it is best to consult with a lawyer.

The best thing, of course, is to screen your tenants, request appropriate deposit and assurances, and focus on keeping your existing tenants happy so they don’t leave and put you a risk for finding them a poor replacement.