Rental Property Investor · Saint Petersburg, FL · Member since 2011 · 46 posts · 5 votes
Hello BP landlords. I have a tenant who hasn’t paid since November of 2019. His nonpayment has nothing to do with COVID. However, the writ was posted the very day an executive order by Florida’s governor stopped all evictions. I got a message yesterday from our PM that the SOONEST evictions can resume for properties with mortgages backed by Fannie/Freddy can begin is July 29th. This is unacceptable and I’m furious needless to say.
What are the limits I can go to that will encourage this 24-year-old freeloader to leave? I have his dad’s phone number. I’d like to call him and shame him basically, plus ask if it’s an option to move back in with him. Also, we’re footing the water bill as it’s a property with a main home and a studio out back (where he lives) both on one meter. I’d like to split the meter and have both tenants responsible for water as the main home’s lease is up and the rent under market anyway. He can get his own water as his lease is null and void. We aren’t shutting it off on him, simply changing the situation. However, I realize that may not be advisable.
How much trouble could I get into if I use these methods to encourage him to vacate? Are they illegal? Thanks in advance for any advice on taking some power back in this situation.
Rental Property Investor · Greenwich, CT · Member since 2015 · 4k+ posts · 2k+ votes
6y
@Kristen Watts, these are all questions for your RE attorney, not internet strangers. Lots of legal implications based on local laws and the current situation.
Have you tried cash for keys? I'm sure the last thing you want to do is give this guy some money, but may be the quickest, cheapest option.
Rental Property Investor · Concord, GA · Member since 2015 · 3k+ posts · 3k+ votes
6y
He's only 24. Perhaps has a lot of years ahead of him. I would write a stern letter letting him know that state imposed eviction delays do not excuse or forgive any rent. That if he has an eviction in his file, he will have a difficult time renting from anyone else in the future. That you will pursue a financial judgement against him in court for all the unpaid rent, utilities, damages, plus your legal costs. Since he's young, I would recommend you actually pursue a judgement against him as this will follow him around until he eventually pays it. Perhaps he will eventually become a useful member of society and need to improve his credit score. Do NOT do cash for keys. That is rewarding bad behavior and at this point in his life he needs some discipline for bad behavior, not a reward. Not sure of FL stance on evictions but in many places, you can actually file one, just cant do the court part. Can you file there?
Rental Property Investor · Saint Petersburg, FL · Member since 2011 · 46 posts · 5 votes
6y
@Josh Teachout; thanks for your reply. We have the eviction judgement against him; not sure if that will show up on his credit? For ten years, I've run this business without formally evicting someone. I usually just say get out, you lose your deposit and leave before I file. Worked every time. I've sent him a strongly worded letter along the lines you suggested; nothing phases this freeloader. I agree, no cash for keys in this case. If there's further damage I can do to his credit, I'll do it. Thanks!