Sorry, you're getting evicted.

Investor · Milwaukee, WI · Member since 2013 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes

Finally going through my first eviction. The last thing I want to do is evict someone. I have an inherited tenant that no matter how much I try to get them in-line, they just won't get it together. I strongly suspect there is a drug problem behind the scenes. Sigh. Sad. There are little kids involved. These people are in their 30's.

I like these people. They live in my house that could use a bit of work and don't complain (much) about it. They keep the house in very good order. My number one requirement is tenants keep my place in good order. So, even though they have been habitually late, I have let them slide. After all, until now they have always paid and, I have avoided doing work and spending money.

This month (June) came with the usual excuses, lies and broken promises. I've gotten used to it and even laugh it off. About mid-month I served the 5-day pay or quit. This is where it gets sad. Instead of simply paying me late, they spend the money, telling me they figured they were getting evicted anyways. The crazy things addiction will convince a person to do.

So, how crazy will their addiction take them now? As it stands, they can hand me keys on Sunday or, I file in court on Monday. They know darn well an eviction on the record means no decent landlord will rent to them. Will their addiction convince them the best choice is to get high as long as possible until the sheriff comes to escort them out? Or will they come to their senses and scramble to find a relatives couch for a month or two? We shall see.

I'd guess this forum has 1000's of threads like this one...

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Jim K.

Handyman · Pittsburgh, PA · Member since 2018 · 5k+ posts · 13k+ votes

@Account Closed

I know parts of this may sound self-serving, but hear me out please, Merritt.

We live in a great country and I say this because I've lived elsewhere and I feel that's been proved to me to my satisfaction. And in this great country, specifically in the great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the great State of Wisconsin, we have this truly extraordinary thing called a functioning social compact backed by the rule of law.

What I'm getting at is that you don't have what you rightly perceive as the burden of making the decision to evict them. You, as the landlord, bring this contract dispute to a court that is empowered to make that decision. The judge, a person empowered by the local government with a lot of authority, decides, not you.

If that wasn't great enough, the court is a nexus for a lot of other things to happen. You mention that there are little kids involved, with guardians who knowingly can't pay their rent even after months of coddling by you. Are these really fit parents? The court has the resources to help people get involved in that. You mention that there's likely an addiction problem. We all pay the social price for that. The court's going to provide access to methods of treatment if it sees a need.

In the long run, how do you know that you're not making the best and most honorable choice to help those kids? By letting deadbeat tenants repeatedly slide, all you're really doing is further weakening the weak, we all know this. You wouldn't do it to your own children for that reason, I certainly wouldn't do it to mine if I had kids.

For all you know, this eviction may be the most meaningful push to change for your tenants and for their children that you could help bring about. If it isn't, that's for the judge to decide. This is a process, and you're not the entity that has the legal right to make judgments about something so serious as homelessness for these people in this process, and that's how it should be in a great country.

A practical note: take this opportunity to make a good impression on the local magistrate who hears this case and all the parties involved, clerks, cops, etc. All your papers and arguments should be well-organized and you should be easy to work with. It's one of the most important relationships in this business. I hired a lawyer for my first one, and I'll hire him again if I ever get beyond my depth in an eviction. This is a business and a learning expense.

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Jay HinrichsBusiness Member
Real Estate Consultant · Summerlin, NV · Member since 2014 · 45k+ posts · 66k+ votes
7y
1001 to be exact..
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Jay HinrichsBusiness Member
Real Estate Consultant · Summerlin, NV · Member since 2014 · 45k+ posts · 66k+ votes
7y
in my day when I worked at the street level.. IE I actually talked to owners and or closed deals myself.
I was in the foreclosure rescue business before it became illegal in OR and WA if not illegal highly regulated that took all the fun and profit out of it.
But I would sit with these folks that at one time had the credit and income to buy a home.
and now find themselves about to lose it.
drive up many times there are 2 nice cars and a Motor home or boat..
and I will never forget this one couple.. Hubby says they make enough money but just cant figure out how they get/got behind.. to me its basic math to others its a challenge and we know that 2 to 5% of borrowers are challenged this way and go into foreclosure for a myriad of reasons some is legit.. loss of job health etc.. but many is just mis management of income to expenses.
Consumer debt for these folks is what I came to believe is the real killer.. too easy to buy expensive cars too easy to buy motor homes and campers with the 20 year payments.. boats etc.. or just whipping the credit card out ..
renters it seems are more human condition.. drugs alcohol baby daddy broken family stuff .
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Scott Mac
Austin, TX · Member since 2019 · 5k+ posts · 5k+ votes
7y
Hi Merritt,
It seems like they have more house than they can afford.
Maybe give them this link: https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/ea
and this one: http://www.hacm.org/programs/housing
Then go to a movie or the driving range or something, and get your mind off of it.
Good Luck!
2 Reply
Jim K.
Handyman · Pittsburgh, PA · Member since 2018 · 5k+ posts · 13k+ votes
7y
@Account Closed
I know parts of this may sound self-serving, but hear me out please, Merritt.
We live in a great country and I say this because I've lived elsewhere and I feel that's been proved to me to my satisfaction. And in this great country, specifically in the great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the great State of Wisconsin, we have this truly extraordinary thing called a functioning social compact backed by the rule of law.
What I'm getting at is that you don't have what you rightly perceive as the burden of making the decision to evict them. You, as the landlord, bring this contract dispute to a court that is empowered to make that decision. The judge, a person empowered by the local government with a lot of authority, decides, not you.
If that wasn't great enough, the court is a nexus for a lot of other things to happen. You mention that there are little kids involved, with guardians who knowingly can't pay their rent even after months of coddling by you. Are these really fit parents? The court has the resources to help people get involved in that. You mention that there's likely an addiction problem. We all pay the social price for that. The court's going to provide access to methods of treatment if it sees a need.
In the long run, how do you know that you're not making the best and most honorable choice to help those kids? By letting deadbeat tenants repeatedly slide, all you're really doing is further weakening the weak, we all know this. You wouldn't do it to your own children for that reason, I certainly wouldn't do it to mine if I had kids.
For all you know, this eviction may be the most meaningful push to change for your tenants and for their children that you could help bring about. If it isn't, that's for the judge to decide. This is a process, and you're not the entity that has the legal right to make judgments about something so serious as homelessness for these people in this process, and that's how it should be in a great country.
A practical note: take this opportunity to make a good impression on the local magistrate who hears this case and all the parties involved, clerks, cops, etc. All your papers and arguments should be well-organized and you should be easy to work with. It's one of the most important relationships in this business. I hired a lawyer for my first one, and I'll hire him again if I ever get beyond my depth in an eviction. This is a business and a learning expense.
14 Reply
Jay HinrichsBusiness Member
Real Estate Consultant · Summerlin, NV · Member since 2014 · 45k+ posts · 66k+ votes
7y
Originally posted by @Jim K.:

@Account Closed
I know parts of this may sound self-serving, but hear me out please, Merritt.
We live in a great country and I say this because I've lived elsewhere and I feel that's been proved to me to my satisfaction. And in this great country, specifically in the great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the great State of Wisconsin, we have this truly extraordinary thing called a functioning social compact backed by the rule of law.
What I'm getting at is that you don't have what you rightly perceive as the burden of making the decision to evict them. You, as the landlord, bring this contract dispute to a court that is empowered to make that decision. The judge, a person empowered by the local government with a lot of authority, decides, not you.
If that wasn't great enough, the court is a nexus for a lot of other things to happen. You mention that there are little kids involved, with guardians who knowingly can't pay their rent even after months of coddling by you. Are these really fit parents? The court has the resources to help people get involved in that. You mention that there's likely an addiction problem. We all pay the social price for that. The court's going to provide access to methods of treatment if it sees a need.
In the long run, how do you know that you're not making the best and most honorable choice to help those kids? By letting deadbeat tenants repeatedly slide, all you're really doing is further weakening the weak, we all know this. You wouldn't do it to your own children for that reason, I certainly wouldn't do it to mine if I had kids.
For all you know, this eviction may be the most meaningful push to change for your tenants and for their children that you could help bring about. If it isn't, that's for the judge to decide. This is a process, and you're not the entity that has the legal right to make judgments about something so serious as homelessness for these people in this process, and that's how it should be in a great country.
A practical note: take this opportunity to make a good impression on the local magistrate who hears this case and all the parties involved, clerks, cops, etc. All your papers and arguments should be well-organized and you should be easy to work with. It's one of the most important relationships in this business. I hired a lawyer for my first one, and I'll hire him again if I ever get beyond my depth in an eviction. This is a business and a learning expense.
I like it Jim eviction is good for the sole.. !!!
Podcast Guest on Show #222
JLH Capital Partners51 Review
Website View Page
3 Reply
Account Closed
OP
Investor · Milwaukee, WI · Member since 2013 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
7y
Originally posted by @Scott Mac:

Hi Merritt,
It seems like they have more house than they can afford.
Maybe give them this link: https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/ea
and this one: http://www.hacm.org/programs/housing
Then go to a movie or the driving range or something, and get your mind off of it.
Good Luck!
Awesome. Thank you. I love to see other landlords that don't immediately pull the ruthless card. I am very ok with the balance I have found between being reasonable and not getting shafted.
3 Reply
James Wise
Real Estate Broker · Cleveland Dayton Cincinnati Toledo Columbus & Akron, OH · Member since 2013 · 30k+ posts · 20k+ votes
7y
Originally posted by @Account Closed:

Finally going through my first eviction. The last thing I want to do is evict someone. I have an inherited tenant that no matter how much I try to get them in-line, they just won't get it together. I strongly suspect there is a drug problem behind the scenes. Sigh. Sad. There are little kids involved. These people are in their 30's.
I like these people. They live in my house that could use a bit of work and don't complain (much) about it. They keep the house in very good order. My number one requirement is tenants keep my place in good order. So, even though they have been habitually late, I have let them slide. After all, until now they have always paid and, I have avoided doing work and spending money.
This month (June) came with the usual excuses, lies and broken promises. I've gotten used to it and even laugh it off. About mid-month I served the 5-day pay or quit. This is where it gets sad. Instead of simply paying me late, they spend the money, telling me they figured they were getting evicted anyways. The crazy things addiction will convince a person to do.
So, how crazy will their addiction take them now? As it stands, they can hand me keys on Sunday or, I file in court on Monday. They know darn well an eviction on the record means no decent landlord will rent to them. Will their addiction convince them the best choice is to get high as long as possible until the sheriff comes to escort them out? Or will they come to their senses and scramble to find a relatives couch for a month or two? We shall see.
I'd guess this forum has 1000's of threads like this one...
Lol it's fairly easy to tell this is your 1st eviction as you are still wondering what it is they are going to do and trying to understand their thought process. Eventually you'll stop caring & start tossing um out at Christmas. No pay = No stay. No questions asked.
4 Reply
Account Closed
OP
Investor · Milwaukee, WI · Member since 2013 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
7y
Originally posted by @Jim K.:

@Account Closed
I know parts of this may sound self-serving, but hear me out please, Merritt.
We live in a great country and I say this because I've lived elsewhere and I feel that's been proved to me to my satisfaction. And in this great country, specifically in the great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the great State of Wisconsin, we have this truly extraordinary thing called a functioning social compact backed by the rule of law.
What I'm getting at is that you don't have what you rightly perceive as the burden of making the decision to evict them. You, as the landlord, bring this contract dispute to a court that is empowered to make that decision. The judge, a person empowered by the local government with a lot of authority, decides, not you.
If that wasn't great enough, the court is a nexus for a lot of other things to happen. You mention that there are little kids involved, with guardians who knowingly can't pay their rent even after months of coddling by you. Are these really fit parents? The court has the resources to help people get involved in that. You mention that there's likely an addiction problem. We all pay the social price for that. The court's going to provide access to methods of treatment if it sees a need.
In the long run, how do you know that you're not making the best and most honorable choice to help those kids? By letting deadbeat tenants repeatedly slide, all you're really doing is further weakening the weak, we all know this. You wouldn't do it to your own children for that reason, I certainly wouldn't do it to mine if I had kids.
For all you know, this eviction may be the most meaningful push to change for your tenants and for their children that you could help bring about. If it isn't, that's for the judge to decide. This is a process, and you're not the entity that has the legal right to make judgments about something so serious as homelessness for these people in this process, and that's how it should be in a great country.
A practical note: take this opportunity to make a good impression on the local magistrate who hears this case and all the parties involved, clerks, cops, etc. All your papers and arguments should be well-organized and you should be easy to work with. It's one of the most important relationships in this business. I hired a lawyer for my first one, and I'll hire him again if I ever get beyond my depth in an eviction. This is a business and a learning expense.
Your right. I suppose I have been laser-focused on having an eviction on the record. I suppose I also tend to think the best thing for kids (and parents) is to stay together. I also loathe government meddling in personal affairs. I also know for a fact their family unit is a loving one (despite having some dysfunction). But, all that said, maybe the lines have been crossed in this case and the best thing for the kids is intervention...I dunno...which makes you right on another point, I don't have to decide that.
LOL - Not sure what parts were self-serving...read like good insight to me - thanks.
2 Reply
Jim K.
Handyman · Pittsburgh, PA · Member since 2018 · 5k+ posts · 13k+ votes
7y
Originally posted by @Jay Hinrichs:
Originally posted by @Jim K.:

@Account Closed
I know parts of this may sound self-serving, but hear me out please, Merritt.
We live in a great country and I say this because I've lived elsewhere and I feel that's been proved to me to my satisfaction. And in this great country, specifically in the great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the great State of Wisconsin, we have this truly extraordinary thing called a functioning social compact backed by the rule of law.
What I'm getting at is that you don't have what you rightly perceive as the burden of making the decision to evict them. You, as the landlord, bring this contract dispute to a court that is empowered to make that decision. The judge, a person empowered by the local government with a lot of authority, decides, not you.
If that wasn't great enough, the court is a nexus for a lot of other things to happen. You mention that there are little kids involved, with guardians who knowingly can't pay their rent even after months of coddling by you. Are these really fit parents? The court has the resources to help people get involved in that. You mention that there's likely an addiction problem. We all pay the social price for that. The court's going to provide access to methods of treatment if it sees a need.
In the long run, how do you know that you're not making the best and most honorable choice to help those kids? By letting deadbeat tenants repeatedly slide, all you're really doing is further weakening the weak, we all know this. You wouldn't do it to your own children for that reason, I certainly wouldn't do it to mine if I had kids.
For all you know, this eviction may be the most meaningful push to change for your tenants and for their children that you could help bring about. If it isn't, that's for the judge to decide. This is a process, and you're not the entity that has the legal right to make judgments about something so serious as homelessness for these people in this process, and that's how it should be in a great country.
A practical note: take this opportunity to make a good impression on the local magistrate who hears this case and all the parties involved, clerks, cops, etc. All your papers and arguments should be well-organized and you should be easy to work with. It's one of the most important relationships in this business. I hired a lawyer for my first one, and I'll hire him again if I ever get beyond my depth in an eviction. This is a business and a learning expense.
I like it Jim eviction is good for the sole.. !!!
OK, like I said, Jay, it may be a bit self-serving, but I've believed for a long time now that it's a bad idea to stand between people and the rock bottom they need to hit to start getting better. I am also deeply grateful to live and work in a country with a functioning social compact and hardworking judges who make the decisions about when and how to throw people out on the street and separate them from their children, not me.
Mario Puzo's second novel, largely ignored, is The Fortunate Pilgrim. He then wrote The Godfather and sadly, became known for that. The Fortunate Pilgrim is very much also the story of my own family's experience in America, and the kind of thing I would write if I had that kind of talent. I think I am very lucky to be here.
2 Reply
Jay HinrichsBusiness Member
Real Estate Consultant · Summerlin, NV · Member since 2014 · 45k+ posts · 66k+ votes
7y
Originally posted by @Jim K.:

Originally posted by @Jay Hinrichs:

Originally posted by @Jim K.:
@Account Closed
I know parts of this may sound self-serving, but hear me out please, Merritt.
We live in a great country and I say this because I've lived elsewhere and I feel that's been proved to me to my satisfaction. And in this great country, specifically in the great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the great State of Wisconsin, we have this truly extraordinary thing called a functioning social compact backed by the rule of law.
What I'm getting at is that you don't have what you rightly perceive as the burden of making the decision to evict them. You, as the landlord, bring this contract dispute to a court that is empowered to make that decision. The judge, a person empowered by the local government with a lot of authority, decides, not you.
If that wasn't great enough, the court is a nexus for a lot of other things to happen. You mention that there are little kids involved, with guardians who knowingly can't pay their rent even after months of coddling by you. Are these really fit parents? The court has the resources to help people get involved in that. You mention that there's likely an addiction problem. We all pay the social price for that. The court's going to provide access to methods of treatment if it sees a need.
In the long run, how do you know that you're not making the best and most honorable choice to help those kids? By letting deadbeat tenants repeatedly slide, all you're really doing is further weakening the weak, we all know this. You wouldn't do it to your own children for that reason, I certainly wouldn't do it to mine if I had kids.
For all you know, this eviction may be the most meaningful push to change for your tenants and for their children that you could help bring about. If it isn't, that's for the judge to decide. This is a process, and you're not the entity that has the legal right to make judgments about something so serious as homelessness for these people in this process, and that's how it should be in a great country.
A practical note: take this opportunity to make a good impression on the local magistrate who hears this case and all the parties involved, clerks, cops, etc. All your papers and arguments should be well-organized and you should be easy to work with. It's one of the most important relationships in this business. I hired a lawyer for my first one, and I'll hire him again if I ever get beyond my depth in an eviction. This is a business and a learning expense.
I like it Jim eviction is good for the sole.. !!!
OK, like I said, Jay, it may be a bit self-serving, but I've believed for a long time now that it's a bad idea to stand between people and the rock bottom they need to hit to start getting better. I am also deeply grateful to live and work in a country with a functioning social compact and hardworking judges who make the decisions about when and how to throw people out on the street and separate them from their children, not me.
Mario Puzo's second novel, largely ignored, is The Fortunate Pilgrim. He then wrote The Godfather and sadly, became known for that. The Fortunate Pilgrim is very much also the story of my own family's experience in America, and the kind of thing I would write if I had that kind of talent. I think I am very lucky to be here.
its the whole reason I am no longer a landlord.. I have too hard of time making the tough decisions.. I was more likely to forgive rent because I felt sorry for them.. took me a while to realize a majority of them were simply lying and its how they live there life when it relates to authority or creditors.. to me there are just easier less drama filled ways to make a living.. but I know that's me in the vast minority of rentals will set you free BP mind set. at least as it relates to lower income brackets..
Podcast Guest on Show #222
JLH Capital Partners51 Review
Website View Page
4 Reply
Account Closed
OP
Investor · Milwaukee, WI · Member since 2013 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
7y
Originally posted by @James Wise:

Originally posted by @Account Closed:
Finally going through my first eviction. The last thing I want to do is evict someone. I have an inherited tenant that no matter how much I try to get them in-line, they just won't get it together. I strongly suspect there is a drug problem behind the scenes. Sigh. Sad. There are little kids involved. These people are in their 30's.
I like these people. They live in my house that could use a bit of work and don't complain (much) about it. They keep the house in very good order. My number one requirement is tenants keep my place in good order. So, even though they have been habitually late, I have let them slide. After all, until now they have always paid and, I have avoided doing work and spending money.
This month (June) came with the usual excuses, lies and broken promises. I've gotten used to it and even laugh it off. About mid-month I served the 5-day pay or quit. This is where it gets sad. Instead of simply paying me late, they spend the money, telling me they figured they were getting evicted anyways. The crazy things addiction will convince a person to do.
So, how crazy will their addiction take them now? As it stands, they can hand me keys on Sunday or, I file in court on Monday. They know darn well an eviction on the record means no decent landlord will rent to them. Will their addiction convince them the best choice is to get high as long as possible until the sheriff comes to escort them out? Or will they come to their senses and scramble to find a relatives couch for a month or two? We shall see.
I'd guess this forum has 1000's of threads like this one...
Lol it's fairly easy to tell this is your 1st eviction as you are still wondering what it is they are going to do and trying to understand their thought process. Eventually you'll stop caring & start tossing um out at Christmas. No pay = No stay. No questions asked.
No. I will never stop caring my friend. It's my brand. It saves me money and headaches. It comes back to me. It's the right thing to do. Even though I am evicting these people, we are both being civil about it. No uneasy conversations or encounters, no spiteful actions...simply no need for any of that. LOL - Maybe I'll give them a hug as they leave.
This is my first eviction in 8 years. These were also inherited tenants I would not have rented to if they were not already moved in.
Yes, I am still finding my way and learning. Had to serve the 5-day a second time because I did it wrong the first time.
Give respect. Be nice. Reject stupidity.
7 Reply
Michael Gansberg
Investor · New York City, NY · Member since 2015 · 388 posts · 563 votes
7y
@Account Closed I think we've all been there. As an early landlord, I got upset when tenants didn't pay, and sometimes got into verbal fights with them. On one occasion years ago, I even got cornered in an apartment by two recently evicted tenants wearing full coats on a warm summer day. I was convinced that they were carrying weapons. I talked my way out of it(and later learned that one of them went to prison for knifing his brother- the brother lived.) It was kind of funny, actually. The apartment was being cleaned and repainted, so there were a few people there- but 4 PM came, and that was quitting time; the painters and cleaners vanished, leaving just me and those two guys.
Later in my career, I began to accept their inability to pay as human error, and I lost my anger during the eviction process. I spoke to outgoing tenants respectfully, even when they were mad at me. It seems like this is the phase you're in. That's a good place to be.
Since then, I've had the buffer of management between me and an outgoing tenant. That insulation is helpful, but management sometimes conveys messages from tenants who are upset. If scale allows you to insulate yourself this way, it may be a good idea.
MG
3 Reply
James Wise
Real Estate Broker · Cleveland Dayton Cincinnati Toledo Columbus & Akron, OH · Member since 2013 · 30k+ posts · 20k+ votes
7y
Originally posted by @Account Closed:

Originally posted by @Account Closed:
Finally going through my first eviction. The last thing I want to do is evict someone. I have an inherited tenant that no matter how much I try to get them in-line, they just won't get it together. I strongly suspect there is a drug problem behind the scenes. Sigh. Sad. There are little kids involved. These people are in their 30's.
I like these people. They live in my house that could use a bit of work and don't complain (much) about it. They keep the house in very good order. My number one requirement is tenants keep my place in good order. So, even though they have been habitually late, I have let them slide. After all, until now they have always paid and, I have avoided doing work and spending money.
This month (June) came with the usual excuses, lies and broken promises. I've gotten used to it and even laugh it off. About mid-month I served the 5-day pay or quit. This is where it gets sad. Instead of simply paying me late, they spend the money, telling me they figured they were getting evicted anyways. The crazy things addiction will convince a person to do.
So, how crazy will their addiction take them now? As it stands, they can hand me keys on Sunday or, I file in court on Monday. They know darn well an eviction on the record means no decent landlord will rent to them. Will their addiction convince them the best choice is to get high as long as possible until the sheriff comes to escort them out? Or will they come to their senses and scramble to find a relatives couch for a month or two? We shall see.
I'd guess this forum has 1000's of threads like this one...
Lol it's fairly easy to tell this is your 1st eviction as you are still wondering what it is they are going to do and trying to understand their thought process. Eventually you'll stop caring & start tossing um out at Christmas. No pay = No stay. No questions asked.
No. I will never stop caring my friend. It's my brand. It saves me money and headaches. It comes back to me. It's the right thing to do. Even though I am evicting these people, we are both being civil about it. No uneasy conversations or encounters, no spiteful actions...simply no need for any of that. LOL - Maybe I'll give them a hug as they leave.
This is my first eviction in 8 years. These were also inherited tenants I would not have rented to if they were not already moved in.
Yes, I am still finding my way and learning. Had to serve the 5-day a second time because I did it wrong the first time.
Give respect. Be nice. Reject stupidity.
Landlord hugging their deadbeats on the way out? Lol that'd be a new one. To each his own.
1 Reply
Jim K.
Handyman · Pittsburgh, PA · Member since 2018 · 5k+ posts · 13k+ votes
7y
Originally posted by @James Wise:
Jim, you command respect as a property manager and I would come to you to help find a property and manage it if I was thinking about investing long-distance next door in Cleveland.
But that's how you deal with your reality and I don't think it's better than how @Account Closed and I deal with ours as local landlords in our cities. Exactly as you said, to each his own. I was a teacher before I was a real estate investor. I had to make MUCH harder and less forgiving decisions about people's lives in that capacity than I ever will as a landlord.
0 Reply
James Wise
Real Estate Broker · Cleveland Dayton Cincinnati Toledo Columbus & Akron, OH · Member since 2013 · 30k+ posts · 20k+ votes
7y
Originally posted by @Jim K.:

Originally posted by @James Wise:

Jim, you command respect as a property manager and I would come to you to help find a property and manage it if I was thinking about investing long-distance next door in Cleveland.
But that's how you deal with your reality and I don't think it's better than how @Account Closed and I deal with ours as local landlords in our cities. Exactly as you said, to each his own. I was a teacher before I was a real estate investor. I had to make MUCH harder and less forgiving decisions about people's lives in that capacity than I ever will as a landlord.
I don't see any decisions that we need to make as all that difficult to be honest. These days my thoughts are tenants either pay, or steal from you. If they steal from you, remove them. Maybe it took me awhile to start feeling this way but looking back at when I thought about things any other way I was really just fooling myself about the realities of this job.
2 Reply
Jim K.
Handyman · Pittsburgh, PA · Member since 2018 · 5k+ posts · 13k+ votes
7y
Originally posted by @James Wise:

Originally posted by @Jim K.:
Originally posted by @James Wise:
Jim, you command respect as a property manager and I would come to you to help find a property and manage it if I was thinking about investing long-distance next door in Cleveland.
But that's how you deal with your reality and I don't think it's better than how @Account Closed and I deal with ours as local landlords in our cities. Exactly as you said, to each his own. I was a teacher before I was a real estate investor. I had to make MUCH harder and less forgiving decisions about people's lives in that capacity than I ever will as a landlord.
I don't see any decisions that we need to make as all that difficult to be honest. These days my thoughts are tenants either pay, or steal from you. If they steal from you, remove them. Maybe it took me awhile to start feeling this way but looking back at when I thought about things any other way I was really just fooling myself about the realities of this job.
Jim...has anyone in your recent memory explained to you that this is the textbook definition of the cognitive distortion typically called binary thinking? My Way or The Highway, You're Either With Us or Against Us, Friend or Foe, Same or Other?
Have you ever heard of the Stanford Prison Experiment?
4 Reply
Kristopher HanksPro Member
Rental Property Investor · Davenport, FL · Member since 2016 · 593 posts · 382 votes
7y
@Account Closed
If you owned a gas station they would have to pay you before they could pump the gas. What's the difference here?
2 Reply
James Wise
Real Estate Broker · Cleveland Dayton Cincinnati Toledo Columbus & Akron, OH · Member since 2013 · 30k+ posts · 20k+ votes
7y
Originally posted by @Jim K.:
Originally posted by @James Wise:

Originally posted by @Jim K.:
Originally posted by @James Wise:
Jim, you command respect as a property manager and I would come to you to help find a property and manage it if I was thinking about investing long-distance next door in Cleveland.
But that's how you deal with your reality and I don't think it's better than how @Account Closed and I deal with ours as local landlords in our cities. Exactly as you said, to each his own. I was a teacher before I was a real estate investor. I had to make MUCH harder and less forgiving decisions about people's lives in that capacity than I ever will as a landlord.
I don't see any decisions that we need to make as all that difficult to be honest. These days my thoughts are tenants either pay, or steal from you. If they steal from you, remove them. Maybe it took me awhile to start feeling this way but looking back at when I thought about things any other way I was really just fooling myself about the realities of this job.
Jim...has anyone in your recent memory explained to you that this is the textbook definition of the cognitive distortion typically called binary thinking? My Way or The Highway, You're Either With Us or Against Us, Friend or Foe, Same or Other?
Have you ever heard of the Stanford Prison Experiment?
I am not into all the philosophical mumbo jumbo my man.
2 Reply
Jim K.
Handyman · Pittsburgh, PA · Member since 2018 · 5k+ posts · 13k+ votes
7y
Originally posted by @James Wise:

Originally posted by @Jim K.:

Originally posted by @James Wise:
Originally posted by @Jim K.:

Originally posted by @James Wise:

Jim, you command respect as a property manager and I would come to you to help find a property and manage it if I was thinking about investing long-distance next door in Cleveland.
But that's how you deal with your reality and I don't think it's better than how @Account Closed and I deal with ours as local landlords in our cities. Exactly as you said, to each his own. I was a teacher before I was a real estate investor. I had to make MUCH harder and less forgiving decisions about people's lives in that capacity than I ever will as a landlord.
I don't see any decisions that we need to make as all that difficult to be honest. These days my thoughts are tenants either pay, or steal from you. If they steal from you, remove them. Maybe it took me awhile to start feeling this way but looking back at when I thought about things any other way I was really just fooling myself about the realities of this job.
Jim...has anyone in your recent memory explained to you that this is the textbook definition of the cognitive distortion typically called binary thinking? My Way or The Highway, You're Either With Us or Against Us, Friend or Foe, Same or Other?
Have you ever heard of the Stanford Prison Experiment?
I am not into all the philosophical mumbo jumbo my man.
I shouldn't have asked. I hope you enjoy the rest of your day and I didn't offend you.
0 Reply
James Wise
Real Estate Broker · Cleveland Dayton Cincinnati Toledo Columbus & Akron, OH · Member since 2013 · 30k+ posts · 20k+ votes
7y
Originally posted by @Jim K.:

Originally posted by @James Wise:
Originally posted by @Jim K.:
Originally posted by @James Wise:

Originally posted by @Jim K.:
Originally posted by @James Wise:
Jim, you command respect as a property manager and I would come to you to help find a property and manage it if I was thinking about investing long-distance next door in Cleveland.
But that's how you deal with your reality and I don't think it's better than how @Account Closed and I deal with ours as local landlords in our cities. Exactly as you said, to each his own. I was a teacher before I was a real estate investor. I had to make MUCH harder and less forgiving decisions about people's lives in that capacity than I ever will as a landlord.
I don't see any decisions that we need to make as all that difficult to be honest. These days my thoughts are tenants either pay, or steal from you. If they steal from you, remove them. Maybe it took me awhile to start feeling this way but looking back at when I thought about things any other way I was really just fooling myself about the realities of this job.
Jim...has anyone in your recent memory explained to you that this is the textbook definition of the cognitive distortion typically called binary thinking? My Way or The Highway, You're Either With Us or Against Us, Friend or Foe, Same or Other?
Have you ever heard of the Stanford Prison Experiment?
I am not into all the philosophical mumbo jumbo my man.
I shouldn't have asked. I hope you enjoy the rest of your day and I didn't offend you.
All good, not offended at all. I enjoy a nice & robust debate as much as the next guy. After lead generation that is why I am on these forums so much after all. But I don't give much credence to the philosophical thinking being relevant here.
2 Reply
Dennis M.
Rental Property Investor · Erie, PA · Member since 2018 · 6k+ posts · 9k+ votes
7y
It all boils down to the simple old phrase ~ if you don’t pay .. you can’t stay!
I recently had a tenant that was *inherited . He was what I’d call a very troubled inner city adult child .he lived like a total slob and of coarse never worked a day in his 30 years of existence on this planet . I knew he was in trouble financially and the law was getting tired of the delinquent fines stacking up . He expressed in interest in finding a job in town but lacked transportation to work the hours they wanted . I had an old mountain bike that was pretty beat up but functional so I gave it him to hopefully get him on the right track . Eventually ( a week later) he sold the bike for beer money .. he then sold the apartments dedicated mower and left me high and dry when the rent was due ! Of coarse before he ghosted on me ,he trashed the unit out ,left crap everywhere ,punched holes in the walls and The carpet is ruined beyond belief .. all this because I gave him the benefit of the doubt . Look I f the people don’t pay they gotta go . No more emotions for me or believing sob stories
7 Reply
James Wise
Real Estate Broker · Cleveland Dayton Cincinnati Toledo Columbus & Akron, OH · Member since 2013 · 30k+ posts · 20k+ votes
7y
Originally posted by @Dennis M.:

It all boils down to the simple old phrase ~ if you don’t pay .. you can’t stay!
I recently had a tenant that was *inherited . He was what I’d call a very troubled inner city adult child .he lived like a total slob and of coarse never worked a day in his 30 years of existence on this planet . I knew he was in trouble financially and the law was getting tired of the delinquent fines stacking up . He expressed in interest in finding a job in town but lacked transportation to work the hours they wanted . I had an old mountain bike that was pretty beat up but functional so I gave it him to hopefully get him on the right track . Eventually ( a week later) he sold the bike for beer money .. he then sold the apartments dedicated mower and left me high and dry when the rent was due ! Of coarse before he ghosted on me ,he trashed the unit out ,left crap everywhere ,punched holes in the walls and The carpet is ruined beyond belief .. all this because I gave him the benefit of the doubt . Look I f the people don’t pay they gotta go . No more emotions for me or believing sob stories
I've never given a tenant a bike but did make the giving the "property" a lawnmower mistake back in the day...Never again lol.
1 Reply
Jessica G.
Investor · Dallas, TX · Member since 2014 · 177 posts · 213 votes
7y
@Account Closed I am new to this and not looking forward to the day that we will be in your position. I have two rental properties now, and try to be friendly to my tenants because they are both great. I also believe that being kind and business savvy are not mutually exclusive.
However. My family comes before any tenant. *When* I'm in your position, my goal will be to try to remember who I am doing this for. And remembering the future we are building for our baby boys will make it a lot easier to swiftly do what's necessary to maintain a successful business! Just wanted to suggest reminding yourself of why you're doing this (whatever that why is). Best wishes for however this plays out!
2 Reply
Hal Fitzgerald
Chicago, IL · Member since 2019 · 91 posts · 21 votes
7y
@Account Closed Being a landlord means always facing situations when it's hard to make decisions. You have to bear in mind that it is not you who have to make the decision under such circumstances, In this case it's better let the judge rule this out.
1 Reply
Account Closed
OP
Investor · Milwaukee, WI · Member since 2013 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
7y
Originally posted by @James Wise:

Originally posted by @Account Closed:

Originally posted by @James Wise:
Originally posted by @Account Closed:

Finally going through my first eviction. The last thing I want to do is evict someone. I have an inherited tenant that no matter how much I try to get them in-line, they just won't get it together. I strongly suspect there is a drug problem behind the scenes. Sigh. Sad. There are little kids involved. These people are in their 30's.
I like these people. They live in my house that could use a bit of work and don't complain (much) about it. They keep the house in very good order. My number one requirement is tenants keep my place in good order. So, even though they have been habitually late, I have let them slide. After all, until now they have always paid and, I have avoided doing work and spending money.
This month (June) came with the usual excuses, lies and broken promises. I've gotten used to it and even laugh it off. About mid-month I served the 5-day pay or quit. This is where it gets sad. Instead of simply paying me late, they spend the money, telling me they figured they were getting evicted anyways. The crazy things addiction will convince a person to do.
So, how crazy will their addiction take them now? As it stands, they can hand me keys on Sunday or, I file in court on Monday. They know darn well an eviction on the record means no decent landlord will rent to them. Will their addiction convince them the best choice is to get high as long as possible until the sheriff comes to escort them out? Or will they come to their senses and scramble to find a relatives couch for a month or two? We shall see.
I'd guess this forum has 1000's of threads like this one...
Lol it's fairly easy to tell this is your 1st eviction as you are still wondering what it is they are going to do and trying to understand their thought process. Eventually you'll stop caring & start tossing um out at Christmas. No pay = No stay. No questions asked.
No. I will never stop caring my friend. It's my brand. It saves me money and headaches. It comes back to me. It's the right thing to do. Even though I am evicting these people, we are both being civil about it. No uneasy conversations or encounters, no spiteful actions...simply no need for any of that. LOL - Maybe I'll give them a hug as they leave.
This is my first eviction in 8 years. These were also inherited tenants I would not have rented to if they were not already moved in.
Yes, I am still finding my way and learning. Had to serve the 5-day a second time because I did it wrong the first time.
Give respect. Be nice. Reject stupidity.
Landlord hugging their deadbeats on the way out? Lol that'd be a new one. To each his own.
LOL - I did say maybe...
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