Non compliant, rude and arrogant tenant

Non compliant, rude and arrogant tenant

Member since 2022 · 32 posts · 9 votes

At the time of screening, he had a credit score of around 600-615. 94% time on-time payment and one collection. I took a risk as this tenant has a family. Tenant was more than willing to get into the property(as he gave holding deposit even before seeing the property in-person). Mine is a brand new single family home in a very growing area so it's very much in demand. 

Unfortunately within 1 month, enough things has happened with this rental, like

1.Tenant is plain simple rude/arrogant in tone, expect all their problems to be fixed by me(i called the electricity company to get connection in their name, called city to get water/trash/sewage in their name. Tenant was expecting that i should pay for all the utilities even when it's clearly mentioned in the lease.

2.Not following lease and have at least 10+ violations in very first month.

3.When repairs has to happen expect contractors to come on weekend or during late evening only so contractors are not happy either.

4. Making calls after 8:30 pm for trivial issues.

5. Neighbors and HOA also complained to me about the tenant.

In the past, when i tried calling the previous landlord(high rise multifamily residential)-nobody responded to my voice mails. Employer gave above average feedback.

Though tenant is paying rent on time but overall attitude is an issue. What can i do? Tolerate the tenant till the lease get over?

How I can put this in the rental history of the tenant so that this high maintenance tenant become reasonable and doesn't behave like this with any future landlord?

Can landlord provide inputs to some tenant's rental history? How?

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Bruce WoodruffPro Member
Contractor/Investor/Consultant · San Diego / Phoenix · Member since 2021 · 12k+ posts · 15k+ votes
4y

Wow. You have a horrible screening policy. You need to change them first or you will continue to get problem tenants.

Credit Score 600? No.

One collection? No.

You took a risk because he has a family? No, everyone has a family.

Offer them a chance to leave now. Strongly imply that if they don't. they will wish they had. And stop receiving messages from them, get a PM.

See this reply in the discussion

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  • Bjorn AhlbladPro Member
    Investor · Shelton, WA · Member since 2017 · 6k+ posts · 6k+ votes
    4y

    If I were to encounter a tenant like that I would simply inform them that since they are unhappy they are free to leave and the sooner the better.

  • Bruce WoodruffPro Member
    Contractor/Investor/Consultant · San Diego / Phoenix · Member since 2021 · 12k+ posts · 15k+ votes
    4y

    Wow. You have a horrible screening policy. You need to change them first or you will continue to get problem tenants.

    Credit Score 600? No.

    One collection? No.

    You took a risk because he has a family? No, everyone has a family.

    Offer them a chance to leave now. Strongly imply that if they don't. they will wish they had. And stop receiving messages from them, get a PM.

  • Theresa HarrisPro Member
    Member since 2019 · 15k+ posts · 11k+ votes
    4y

    Take charge.  Tell him that you will deal with it on the next business day unless it is an emergency.  the fact that it is a brand new home means there should not be repairs.

    I agree with Bjorn-give them the unhappy clause. Tell them this place is clearly not a good fit and they are welcome to break the lease and move out at the end of the month with no penalty.

    Look at the facts and leave the emotion out of it. Most people with a sob story are the ones you want to avoid.

  • Honolulu, HI · Member since 2008 · 3k+ posts · 2k+ votes
    4y
    Aloha,

    Providing a deposit before seeing the property, also a Red Flag. Even IF they don't have financial issues, once they move in "it's smaller than it looked in the photos"; "parking is too difficult"; "it's scary at night", etc. etc. Always insist on in person viewing.
  • Nathan GesnerBusiness Member
    Moderator
    Real Estate Broker · Cody, WY · Member since 2010 · 28k+ posts · 41k+ votes
    4y

    I'm with the others. You skipped right past some red flags and rented in a hurry. Renting quickly often costs you more money or creates more problems. You say the house is new and in a great neighborhood, so why not hold out for a great renter?

    At this point, you need to put your foot down. If they violate the lease, give them a written notice of violation, a deadline for correction, and an inspection to verify (if necessary). Give them a warning that three violations will result in termination of their lease.

    Set up a Google Voice number. Program it to only allow them to leave a voicemail, then send a copy of their voicemail to your email. All communication should be by email or your Google number, unless it's an emergency that requires immediate attention (fire, flooding, loss of heat in winter, etc.). When something comes in by email or Google voice, you can listen to it and decide when to respond. If they call your personal phone for a non-emergency, that should be a lease violation.

    The DIY Landlord Book4.7247 Reviews
  • Member since 2022 · 142 posts · 61 votes
    4y
    Quote from @Ash S.:

    At the time of screening, he had a credit score of around 600-615. 94% time on-time payment and one collection. I took a risk as this tenant has a family. Tenant was more than willing to get into the property(as he gave holding deposit even before seeing the property in-person). Mine is a brand new single family home in a very growing area so it's very much in demand. 

    Unfortunately within 1 month, enough things has happened with this rental, like

    1.Tenant is plain simple rude/arrogant in tone, expect all their problems to be fixed by me(i called the electricity company to get connection in their name, called city to get water/trash/sewage in their name. Tenant was expecting that i should pay for all the utilities even when it's clearly mentioned in the lease.

    2.Not following lease and have at least 10+ violations in very first month.

    3.When repairs has to happen expect contractors to come on weekend or during late evening only so contractors are not happy either.

    4. Making calls after 8:30 pm for trivial issues.

    5. Neighbors and HOA also complained to me about the tenant.

    In the past, when i tried calling the previous landlord(high rise multifamily residential)-nobody responded to my voice mails. Employer gave above average feedback.

    Though tenant is paying rent on time but overall attitude is an issue. What can i do? Tolerate the tenant till the lease get over?

    How I can put this in the rental history of the tenant so that this high maintenance tenant become reasonable and doesn't behave like this with any future landlord?

    Can landlord provide inputs to some tenant's rental history? How?

    Welcome to the landlord world. ha ha. Sorry couldn't resist. First you should never rent to anyone who is in a rush to rent and is giving you money before ever seeing the unit. That is a big red flag that they are being evicted or have not paid their rent and are eager to waive a fist full of dollars in your face in the hopes you won't notice the stink around them. The score is not good and the collection account should have been addressed. Did you check references? Did you ask for proof of payment? Have you spoken to the previous landlord? Always talk to the landlord before the last because that landlord will tell you the truth. If you could not get a reference you should not have rented to him.  Second SET BOUNDARIES. If you do not want them calling after hours tell them not to do so. You could also get a virtual number for your tenants. That way you can make an announcement that this number is for emergencies only. Tell your tenant you will not fix anything on the weekend, unless there is water leaking or something more serious. Lastly I don't know what your lease says but in my lease if there is even ONE violation I can terminate the lease. You send them a certified letter and call out the violation with a time frame to correct it. If they don't they are gone. This is YOUR property not the tenants. Be respectful but be FIRM. This is after all a business. Best of luck with this one. We've all been there, but I find drawing the line in the sand at the beginning helps in the future. 
  • Real Estate Professional · Mansfield, MA · Member since 2012 · 74 posts · 28 votes
    4y

    Hi Ash,

    Unfortunately, I have to agree with the others. Trust me, we have all been where you are. You need to draw a line in the sand. Be firm, but not rude (treat them how you want to be treated). You are the landlord, so act like it. Yes, they have a family, but we all do. We all learn this way, and it stinks. Make sure if they violate the lease in anyway, shape or form, you make a record of it. If my lease is violated three times, my tenants are out. You can do it and this experience will make you better. Good luck. 

  • OH · Member since 2022 · 75 posts · 23 votes
    4y

    Hey Ash,

    Sorry to hear about this unfortunate predicament! Sounds like there was not good communication from the beginning. How many of your complaints against this tenant are violations of the lease and could be used to lawfully end the lease? I believe that would be the best direction to start looking into. Taking an aggressive stance or implying something bad will happen to them if they don't shape up will only lead to legal trouble. I think there is some great advice in this thread, but as a landlord, you must take the high road in every situation. Be firm in your stance, but do not take matters into your own hands. We have a legal system for that. 

    Some helpful advice for the future: Before signing a lease with the tenant, I always give them a call a day or so beforehand and go over utilities, pet fees, expectations, contacting pm, and general things on the lease. I find that this helps keep the tenant on the same page. We cannot assume they read the lease, unfortunately. 

    Good luck!

  • Member since 2022 · 32 posts · 9 votes
    4y
    Quote from @David Spurlock:

    Hey Ash,

    Sorry to hear about this unfortunate predicament! Sounds like there was not good communication from the beginning. How many of your complaints against this tenant are violations of the lease and could be used to lawfully end the lease? I believe that would be the best direction to start looking into. Taking an aggressive stance or implying something bad will happen to them if they don't shape up will only lead to legal trouble. I think there is some great advice in this thread, but as a landlord, you must take the high road in every situation. Be firm in your stance, but do not take matters into your own hands. We have a legal system for that. 

    Some helpful advice for the future: Before signing a lease with the tenant, I always give them a call a day or so beforehand and go over utilities, pet fees, expectations, contacting pm, and general things on the lease. I find that this helps keep the tenant on the same page. We cannot assume they read the lease, unfortunately. 

    Good luck!


     Thanks for your response. I had been communicating out here from day 1. When lease was signed, prior to that 1 full hour of induction with all the Q&A was done. As part of lease 1 full week of rent was free. But it seems this tenant is not going to be happy no matter what is provided to them. Lease Document is based on standard template along with 25 additional terms and conditions(overall 15 pages). 72 hours of time was provided to go thru it and ask questions. Even for this vendor was selected among 4 vendors. Vendors made the appointment and tenant gave them tough time. Tenant can only be available M-F after 7pm.  Even not willing to move the furniture and cooperate with the vendor. Moreover tenant is not willing to make the payment for this repair and asking to take money from security deposit. I clearly told that you need to pay the money. If I am paying, I am taking the tenant to the Small Claims court. 

  • Investor · Austin, TX · Member since 2021 · 9k+ posts · 5k+ votes
    4y

    I can't stress this enough, why are y'all investors still dealing with tenants? They will drain you and stoop you to their level. Let the property managers handle it, be a true business owner 

  • Member since 2022 · 32 posts · 9 votes
    4y
    Quote from @Eliott Elias:

    I can't stress this enough, why are y'all investors still dealing with tenants? They will drain you and stoop you to their level. Let the property managers handle it, be a true business owner 

    Easier said then done plus it's not worth it. Property manager charges anywhere from 8% to 10% in DFW area. None of them are able to get the tenant in the first 4 weeks and then lower rent with other compromises happen(first hand experience). This 8% to 10% eats up the entire margin that small time landlord(2 properties) like me make from the rental. Trust me more people you add, more stress you have. I am doing rental management for 6 years now and know how well these property management is working. Runs HOA for the place where I live and we have HOA management companies. Trust me those HOA management companies and property management does all sort of contract/agreement in their favor and there is least HOA or landlord can do. My another friend who have property manager can't even get rent on time from their tenant. Property manager is not doing anything to evict the tenants. Most of the property managers here are the ones who did online course in less than $200 to become a realtor. Thanks but no thanks for this kind of advice of having a property manager.

  • Real Estate Consultant · Cleveland · Member since 2020 · 6k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    4y
    Quote from @Ash S.:

    At the time of screening, he had a credit score of around 600-615. 94% time on-time payment and one collection. I took a risk as this tenant has a family. Tenant was more than willing to get into the property(as he gave holding deposit even before seeing the property in-person). Mine is a brand new single family home in a very growing area so it's very much in demand. 

    Unfortunately within 1 month, enough things has happened with this rental, like

    1.Tenant is plain simple rude/arrogant in tone, expect all their problems to be fixed by me(i called theI

    Ignore their calls. 

  • Real Estate Consultant · Cleveland · Member since 2020 · 6k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    4y
    Quote from @Ash S.:

    At the time of screening, he had a credit score of around 600-615. 94% time on-time payment and one collection. I took a risk as this tenant has a family. Tenant was more than willing to get into the property(as he gave holding deposit even before seeing the property in-person). Mine is a brand new single family home in a very growing area so it's very much in demand. 

    Unfortunately within 1 month, enough things has happened with this rental, like

    1.Tenant is plain simple rude/arrogant in tone, expect all their problems to be fixed by me(i called theI

    Ignore their calls. Tell them you are not at their beck and call and if they keep pissing you off you will evict them. 

    BTW this is just another example why EVERY rental owner should I hire a PM CO. Owners should never deal with tenants, much to emotional. PM fee is meaningless.  

  • Bruce WoodruffPro Member
    Contractor/Investor/Consultant · San Diego / Phoenix · Member since 2021 · 12k+ posts · 15k+ votes
    4y
    Quote from @Ash S.:
    Quote from @Eliott Elias:

    I can't stress this enough, why are y'all investors still dealing with tenants? They will drain you and stoop you to their level. Let the property managers handle it, be a true business owner 

    I am doing rental management for 6 years now and know how well these property management is working. Runs HOA for the place where I live and we have HOA management companies. Most of the property managers here are the ones who did online course in less than $200 to become a realtor. Thanks but no thanks for this kind of advice of having a property manager.

    Because you're doing such an outstanding job yourself......
  • Rental Property Investor · Member since 2020 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
    4y

    A side question but why do you have so many contractors on a new build, I thought that was the benefit of a new build is that you shouldn't have much break.  Not everyone has people skills and it seems this tenant was able to hide that enough until they got in the house.  If you don't want to take calls after 8:30 don't, just let them go to voicemail.  I don't know the last time a tenant called me after they were in the house, we communicate through text only.  I have documentation, they can send pictures, and it is convenient.  If they broke something they need to fix it, if it is not something that will only get worse over time I wouldn't be fixing it while they are still there and let them know it is their responsibility.  I prefer to have the tenants meet repair people however if they can't I just go there myself, I see it as part of the job.  Sometimes they can, sometimes they can't, and sometimes even if they can I still want to be there.  You can try the happy clause but it isn't going to get them out, they are a subpar tenant that you took a chance on and are unlikely to have an easy time finding another place but hopefully it can set the tone for how things are going.  When their lease is up you can choose to either non renew or be compensated for your time with a higher than normal increase above market rate.  If they leave, no big deal, if they stay at least you are compensated for the aggravation.  MTM will be key if they decide to stay, it keeps everyone polite knowing that actions can have quick consequences.  I agree with you on your sentiment on PM's they are the same in my area.  They charge 10% for the privilege of knowing they will answer the phone but if they have to do anything they are also charging for that, what is the 10% for.  You have a challenging tenant, happens to the best of us but unless this is a pattern for you learn from it and keep on moving.  

  • Member since 2022 · 32 posts · 9 votes
    4y
    Quote from @Adam Martin:

    A side question but why do you have so many contractors on a new build, I thought that was the benefit of a new build is that you shouldn't have much break.  Not everyone has people skills and it seems this tenant was able to hide that enough until they got in the house.  If you don't want to take calls after 8:30 don't, just let them go to voicemail.  I don't know the last time a tenant called me after they were in the house, we communicate through text only.  I have documentation, they can send pictures, and it is convenient.  If they broke something they need to fix it, if it is not something that will only get worse over time I wouldn't be fixing it while they are still there and let them know it is their responsibility.  I prefer to have the tenants meet repair people however if they can't I just go there myself, I see it as part of the job.  Sometimes they can, sometimes they can't, and sometimes even if they can I still want to be there.  You can try the happy clause but it isn't going to get them out, they are a subpar tenant that you took a chance on and are unlikely to have an easy time finding another place but hopefully it can set the tone for how things are going.  When their lease is up you can choose to either non renew or be compensated for your time with a higher than normal increase above market rate.  If they leave, no big deal, if they stay at least you are compensated for the aggravation.  MTM will be key if they decide to stay, it keeps everyone polite knowing that actions can have quick consequences.  I agree with you on your sentiment on PM's they are the same in my area.  They charge 10% for the privilege of knowing they will answer the phone but if they have to do anything they are also charging for that, what is the 10% for.  You have a challenging tenant, happens to the best of us but unless this is a pattern for you learn from it and keep on moving.  

     It's a spec home and it had hardly 6 issues. Out of that 5 issues were already fixed by the builder. One issue, builder say - let's wait for 2 months and revisit. 

    Mostly the issues created by this tenant:

    1. Improper TV mount install and not willing to pay for the repair. Asking to take it from security deposit. Not cooperating also.

    2. One of the sprinkler heads are broken by the lawn mower(which tenant was suppose to supervise). This tenant was expecting that water/sewage/trash should be part of rent(not extra even when it's clearly in the zillow advertisement, lease document as well as explained). Now he closed the sprinkler so that there is no water to the grass and the plants. 

    For everything, even the minor stuff becomes big deal due to his argumentative attitude. I don't respond in any emotion or hurry as I don't have time, energy for all this. Moreover it simply adds to overall stress. What is the point of wining an argumentative with this argumentative tenant who simply don't want to follow the rules.

  • Theresa HarrisPro Member
    Member since 2019 · 15k+ posts · 11k+ votes
    4y
    Quote from @Ash S.:
    Quote from @Adam Martin:

    A side question but why do you have so many contractors on a new build, I thought that was the benefit of a new build is that you shouldn't have much break.  Not everyone has people skills and it seems this tenant was able to hide that enough until they got in the house.  If you don't want to take calls after 8:30 don't, just let them go to voicemail.  I don't know the last time a tenant called me after they were in the house, we communicate through text only.  I have documentation, they can send pictures, and it is convenient.  If they broke something they need to fix it, if it is not something that will only get worse over time I wouldn't be fixing it while they are still there and let them know it is their responsibility.  I prefer to have the tenants meet repair people however if they can't I just go there myself, I see it as part of the job.  Sometimes they can, sometimes they can't, and sometimes even if they can I still want to be there.  You can try the happy clause but it isn't going to get them out, they are a subpar tenant that you took a chance on and are unlikely to have an easy time finding another place but hopefully it can set the tone for how things are going.  When their lease is up you can choose to either non renew or be compensated for your time with a higher than normal increase above market rate.  If they leave, no big deal, if they stay at least you are compensated for the aggravation.  MTM will be key if they decide to stay, it keeps everyone polite knowing that actions can have quick consequences.  I agree with you on your sentiment on PM's they are the same in my area.  They charge 10% for the privilege of knowing they will answer the phone but if they have to do anything they are also charging for that, what is the 10% for.  You have a challenging tenant, happens to the best of us but unless this is a pattern for you learn from it and keep on moving.  

     It's a spec home and it had hardly 6 issues. Out of that 5 issues were already fixed by the builder. One issue, builder say - let's wait for 2 months and revisit. 

    Mostly the issues created by this tenant:

    1. Improper TV mount install and not willing to pay for the repair. Asking to take it from security deposit. Not cooperating also.

    2. One of the sprinkler heads are broken by the lawn mower(which tenant was suppose to supervise). This tenant was expecting that water/sewage/trash should be part of rent(not extra even when it's clearly in the zillow advertisement, lease document as well as explained). Now he closed the sprinkler so that there is no water to the grass and the plants. 

    For everything, even the minor stuff becomes big deal due to his argumentative attitude. I don't respond in any emotion or hurry as I don't have time, energy for all this. Moreover it simply adds to overall stress. What is the point of wining an argumentative with this argumentative tenant who simply don't want to follow the rules.


     Time to give them an ultimatum-move out or start following the lease.  

  • Member since 2022 · 32 posts · 9 votes
    4y
    Quote from @Theresa Harris:
    Quote from @Ash S.:
    Quote from @Adam Martin:

    A side question but why do you have so many contractors on a new build, I thought that was the benefit of a new build is that you shouldn't have much break.  Not everyone has people skills and it seems this tenant was able to hide that enough until they got in the house.  If you don't want to take calls after 8:30 don't, just let them go to voicemail.  I don't know the last time a tenant called me after they were in the house, we communicate through text only.  I have documentation, they can send pictures, and it is convenient.  If they broke something they need to fix it, if it is not something that will only get worse over time I wouldn't be fixing it while they are still there and let them know it is their responsibility.  I prefer to have the tenants meet repair people however if they can't I just go there myself, I see it as part of the job.  Sometimes they can, sometimes they can't, and sometimes even if they can I still want to be there.  You can try the happy clause but it isn't going to get them out, they are a subpar tenant that you took a chance on and are unlikely to have an easy time finding another place but hopefully it can set the tone for how things are going.  When their lease is up you can choose to either non renew or be compensated for your time with a higher than normal increase above market rate.  If they leave, no big deal, if they stay at least you are compensated for the aggravation.  MTM will be key if they decide to stay, it keeps everyone polite knowing that actions can have quick consequences.  I agree with you on your sentiment on PM's they are the same in my area.  They charge 10% for the privilege of knowing they will answer the phone but if they have to do anything they are also charging for that, what is the 10% for.  You have a challenging tenant, happens to the best of us but unless this is a pattern for you learn from it and keep on moving.  

     It's a spec home and it had hardly 6 issues. Out of that 5 issues were already fixed by the builder. One issue, builder say - let's wait for 2 months and revisit. 

    Mostly the issues created by this tenant:

    1. Improper TV mount install and not willing to pay for the repair. Asking to take it from security deposit. Not cooperating also.

    2. One of the sprinkler heads are broken by the lawn mower(which tenant was suppose to supervise). This tenant was expecting that water/sewage/trash should be part of rent(not extra even when it's clearly in the zillow advertisement, lease document as well as explained). Now he closed the sprinkler so that there is no water to the grass and the plants. 

    For everything, even the minor stuff becomes big deal due to his argumentative attitude. I don't respond in any emotion or hurry as I don't have time, energy for all this. Moreover it simply adds to overall stress. What is the point of wining an argumentative with this argumentative tenant who simply don't want to follow the rules.


     Time to give them an ultimatum-move out or start following the lease.  

     Thanks Theresa. Life is too short to waste with certain people. First Small claims court for recovery of the damage repair cost. If that doesn't fix the overall attitude then eviction lawsuit.

  • Austin, TX · Member since 2019 · 5k+ posts · 5k+ votes
    4y

    Hi Ash,

    "Familial status" is a protected class, you can neither rent on it, nor deny rental on it. Federal Government law.

    Your passivity in the face of a more forceful personality seems like it might be part of the issue here.

    Choose our future renters more wisely.

    And as others above have said, handle this one in a wise manner.

    Good Luck!

  • Member since 2021 · 109 posts · 130 votes
    4y

    1. If someone is in a hurry, or offers X months rent up front, or is trying to avoid a background check - biggest red flags there are

    2. you need concrete rental requirements, if they don't pass you don't make exceptions, and the requored credit score should be 650+

    3. your lease should be very clear about who mows the lawn, trims the trees, pays for the lawn watering and who is responsible if HOA imposes a fine

    4. you dont discuss deposit deductions until they moved out - but I have a feeling this guy is going to damage so much the security deposit will not cover everything in the end

  • Investor · Akron, OH · Member since 2016 · 2k+ posts · 4k+ votes
    4y

    @Ash S.

    1. Where is your rental located? If you do not have a COMPLETE and full understanding of the laws in the jurisdiction where you operate your rental (and federal fair housing law), the number one thing you need to do today is to read and understand the laws governing the landlord tenant relationship for you particular area.

    2. Make sure ALL future communication with this tenant is done in writing. Every.Single.Time. You control how you allow a tenant to communicate with you. Make sure that anything you write down and send to this tenant is something that you would not mind having read aloud in court.

    3. As others have suggested, Try the 'happy clause', Dear tenant, you are clearly not happy here so we're going to let you out of your lease... if you are lucky they will leave but it seems like this is a long shot.

    4. Make sure your lease specifies the tenant's responsibilities regarding utility transfers. My tenants don't get keys until transfers are complete. What does your current lease specify?

    5.Make sure your lease specifies the tenant's responsibilities for dealing with 3rd party contractors. Making appointments during regular business hours and keeping appointments and fines and/or service charges for failing to keep appointments and fines and service charges should be credited ahead of rent when you accept payments. What does your current lease say?

    6. Make sure your lease specifies how tenant will be notified regarding in-house maintenance. You do not have to ask permission to enter your property but UNLESS it is an emergency, you have to give proper notice. Here it is 24 hours. My lease requires tenants to keep an email address up to date and on file and to accept email notifications (though I also will text notice most of the time). Again, it's your responsibility to know the rules you are playing by.

  • Member since 2022 · 32 posts · 9 votes
    4y

    Thanks Jill and everybody out here. It's never too late to learn. I will be using these points as well as experience to have a better lease next time(to cover the bases). I know nothing is perfect so if there is a crook tenant - they will still find out a way to take advantage of the situation. 

  • Andy WebbPro Member
    Rental Property Investor · Carrollton, TX · Member since 2013 · 750 posts · 538 votes
    4y

    One thing you wrote in your original post jumped out at me:  "In the past, when i tried calling the previous landlord(high rise multifamily residential)-nobody responded to my voice mails. Employer gave above average feedback."

    If you did not get a response from the prior landlord and getting that feedback from them is part of your process, then I would not consider the tenant screening complete.  You cannot make a good decision with incomplete information and this info may have helped you go in a different direction with this guy.

    Slow down and do not move forward until you have all the boxes checked that are part of your tenant due diligence process.  And it should be a process that is clearly laid out (e.g. use a checklist), that you apply to everyone.  

    Andy

  • Drew SygitBusiness Member
    Property Manager · Royal Oak, MI · Member since 2012 · 12k+ posts · 9k+ votes
    4y

    @Ash S. you obviously got fooled!

    This is why DIY landlords should have well defined processes or hire a great PMC.

    Evict this tenant and start over. 

    Then worry about getting even - but, can tell you it won't be worth your time.

  • Investor · Austin, TX · Member since 2021 · 9k+ posts · 5k+ votes
    4y
    Quote from @Ash S.:
    Quote from @Eliott Elias:

    I can't stress this enough, why are y'all investors still dealing with tenants? They will drain you and stoop you to their level. Let the property managers handle it, be a true business owner 

    Easier said then done plus it's not worth it. Property manager charges anywhere from 8% to 10% in DFW area. None of them are able to get the tenant in the first 4 weeks and then lower rent with other compromises happen(first hand experience). This 8% to 10% eats up the entire margin that small time landlord(2 properties) like me make from the rental. Trust me more people you add, more stress you have. I am doing rental management for 6 years now and know how well these property management is working. Runs HOA for the place where I live and we have HOA management companies. Trust me those HOA management companies and property management does all sort of contract/agreement in their favor and there is least HOA or landlord can do. My another friend who have property manager can't even get rent on time from their tenant. Property manager is not doing anything to evict the tenants. Most of the property managers here are the ones who did online course in less than $200 to become a realtor. Thanks but no thanks for this kind of advice of having a property manager.


     Property managers shouldn't make your life harder, they should make it efficient and headache free. 10% is such a small fee for peace of mind. I understand i you have 2 properties, when you start playing in the 5 properties + it really makes a difference 

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