If tenants don't qualify, would you accept a foreign co-signer?

[Trevor Levine]

Two youngsters want to rent my 1-bedroom furnished apartment. They have little income, but one says her parents are supporting her while she's in college. So I asked if the parents would co-sign.

The parents said Yes, but they are French citizens living in France. I assume they do not have SS#s. If I rent to the kids and they default, and the parents also default, is there any real downside for the parents?

I know I can take the kids to court, and maybe put an unlawful detainer on their credit reports. But would I have any leverage to make the parents pay? Thanks.

[Gail K.]

So...if your young tenants do not pay (and it almost sounds as if the parents will be paying the rent anyway) do you have any idea how you will get the money out of a couple that live in France?

If it were me I'd walk away from this one.

Gail