Lease term has ended but tenant not vacating, now what?

[Robert Niessen]

Hi folks, looking for some advice. We bought a duplex at the end of December 2016, our first. We inherited one tenant which has proven challenging. Not long after we took over ownership the tenant approached us and let us know they could not afford the rent so we agreed to let them out of the lease early. End of April instead of August with supporting paperwork signed by tenant. Yesterday I went to the unit to do a clean out and the tenant has obviously not moved out, has installed an interior latch preventing entry and would not answer the door. Cell phone has been disconnected and no one answered at the apartment, so we left a pay or quit notice. My question is what are the right next steps and the pay or quit the proper notice? Thanks in advance for the collective BP wisdom! Rob

[Deanna McCormick]

Yes with the pay or quit notice, I tape it right over the door lock so I can tell if the unit / house has been entered. If your close enough camp out for a few hours and see if you can talk to tenant.

Next step is court for eviction action, for cause," failure to vacate as per lease termination agreement". that will take you about 2 1/2 weeks or more,, Or you can meet with tenant, say  if your out in three days I'll give you XXX bucks,, sign here this agreement you agree to vacate turn in your keys, remove all personal property by noon,  if your not out I file that day at noon. You show up with new locks, and hope an pray they have their crap moved out.