Signing new lease before notifying current tenant
I have a tenant in one unit of my duplex who I inherited with the purchase and I need him out. Currently he's 4 months away from the lease expiration, but need to sign up a new tenant NOW because it's a college town and I'll miss the boat if I wait too long. I have up until about May to have a new tenant or I basically need to wait until the next semester or school year.
Ideally I'd find a new tenant, sign a new lease without showing the apartment (its a complete mess and I dont want to show it), and then give notification at 60 days.
I fear that if I give notice to my current tenant he'll have extra time to be mad and become a major headache for me. If I dont tell him and he finds out another way, it could be just as bad.
Has anyone had a similar situation? How have you handled it?
Most Popular Reply
Agree with Marcia on all counts. However, you left out specifics. It really depends. If, for instance, the current tenant is in a lease/loss situation, where the rent you are getting is way below market rent, then that is a factor. Another idea I have, in conjunction with @Marcia Maynard, is to approach the tenant and just treat him like a normal person. Where I think a little differently is, tell him your situation, and work out a deal where he makes his unit presentable for high quality digital photos for marketing, and for showings. You have his damage deposit. You will be a reference he will need for future rentals. You also would be willing to give him a bonus ($50.00?) if you get a new tenant with a signed lease for next year, due to his efforts to help you. If he keeps his end of the deal, you give him the equivalent of a referral bonus. The guy might end up being someone who tells others about what a great landlord you are. Just a thought.