Lease Renewal/Repairs Needed

[Debbie B.]

We have one rental property and the lease is about to expire.  The tenants are interested in purchasing the property, but have poor credit.  We had hoped to set up a lease option, but after spending HOURS on this forum, it doesn't look feasible in Texas.  They do want to renew their lease.  However, I just found out from my husband they have not been taking very good care of the house.  There are holes in the window screens in the front of the house.  The screens were in perfect condition when we rented it.  One of the teenage boys (who is not even on the lease) broke the bathroom door. A six-panel bathroom door!  The yard looks terrible and there are other minor things that annoy me.

I expected wear and tear on the property, but had hoped they would take better care of the house since they want to buy it.  It doesn't help that we lived in the house for 18 years and fixed it up for us, not for a rental.  We have been passive landlords, but now that we're wanting to invest in other properties, it's time to get off of our duff!  There is a clause in the lease agreement that states the tenant is responsible for minor repairs less than $175.   The screens are an eye sore.  Trust me, there are worse looking properties in the neighborhood.  One of reasons we moved out. 

So, now that I've rambled...can we require they replace the screens and bathroom door as stipulation to renew the lease?  They did make a deposit.  Should we just wait and see what happens during the next 12 months and use the deposit for the repairs should they not renew or buy next year? Thanks!Debbie