The carrot vs the stick

[Michael Julian]

Do you ever give your good renters bonuses? Last Christmas, I gave two of my best renters $50.00 gift cards to spend however they wished. These were tenants that paid every month early or on time, and maintained my property with meticulous cleanliness. They rarely had issue unless something required my attention for repairs. They really appreciated the little bonus and have become my best renters by far.

They are roommates, and one of them has purchased a house, but I would really like to keep the other if she can afford to keep the place herself, (or can find a qualified roommate). I was thinking about offering a small bonus if she signs another one year lease. 

Is this anything anyone else has done to keep those elusive, "perfect" renters?

[Richard C.]

This comes up from time to time.  Despite massive piles of research, backed by real-world experience, that positive reinforcement is more effective than negative reinforcement, the vast, overwhelming number of landlords will only entertain negative reinforcement techniques.  I expect that is the response you will get from this thread.