Month-To-Month Tenant 30+ years and I don't want to renew

[Sean N.]

Been thinking about this scenario for more than a year but after listening to podcast #679 my 2/1 duplex is smack in the middle between 2 major hospitals and would be a perfect candidate for a MTR.  Tenant's month-to-month lease is due for review in February.  I don't want to renew but I know she's going to put up a huge fight and ask why after 30+ years am I making her move out.  I fear she's going to play the "I'm disabled, you can't get rid of me" card.  I really don't have a reason for not renewing other than I want to upgrade, update and do the medium term rental.  Do you think she will take me to court since I really don't have a reason for not renewing?

[Kevin Sobilo]

@Sean N., you said a duplex. Are both units occupied by SUPER long term tenants?

If I was getting a good return from a hassle free older tenant on a stable fixed income who would likely stay until they were no longer able to live on their own or pass away, I would probably ride that horse into the ground!

No matter how much you vet applicants, new tenants are an unknown. You have a 30+ year track record to know if this a good tenant.

If there are 2 units, why not convert the other unit when it turns over. Or even raise the rent each year a bit more aggressively until it turns over.

Also consider the lost income if the tenant does drag out an eviction and in the end you are unable to collect.

For me it would have to be very lucrative for me to do something as you suggest or the tenant would have to be one that I wanted to get rid of anyways.