Seller kept the rents

[Derrick U.]

After closing on my multifamily some of the tenants refused to pay rent for December and January because they said that they paid the previous landlord. They have receipts. The previous owner is not responding to my calls. Any suggestions on how to get the money he owes me?

[Karl B.]

What does the closing paperwork say about the rents? If you're not sure ask your realtor/RE attorney who helped with the close. If the money is clearly yours, take the previous owner to small claims court - you can sue for up to $5,000 and you don't need to pay for a lawyer. 

Also, let each and every one of your tenants know where to send the rent so this doesn't occur again.