Durham starting a program in August to help avoid evictions

[Jonathan Taylor Smith]

Just read an interesting article at: https://www.indyweek.com/news/archives/2017/07/12/hundreds-of-eviction-cases-come-through-durham-courts-each-month-a-new-program-aims-to-change-that - about Durham starting a new program in August to help Tenants & Landlords avoid evictions. I personally have yet to file an eviction, but was very near to doing so for one of my tenants. Thankfully I was able to get them back on the same page and things have been fine since then. It mentions Durham having nearly 900 evictions per month!

[Joe Splitrock]

Originally posted by @Jonathan Taylor Smith:

@Joe Splitrock & @Thomas S. - All true... I'd just say that at this point in my limited experience of 2 years, I've been able to eliminate those types of persons from ever becoming my tenants in the first place. And in the coming month(s) I'm going to start putting on some informal "financial intelligence" meetings, inviting (among others) those who were declined as tenants. It may be a waste of time and effort, but if nothing else, it will help improve my presentation and public speaking skills!

It is smart to screen people like that out, but obviously there are landlords renting to them. Usually they are stuck in less desirable properties and the landlords do minimum maintenance. My experience with tenants like this ended when I sold my low-end properties. I think it is GREAT that you are trying to make a difference by inviting people to your "financial intelligence" meetings. People are not a lost cause, but they require someone with the right message to reach them. This is an amazing way you can give back to the community. I know several people who attended Dave Ramsey Financial Peace program and it completely changed their lives.