Purchasing Duplex...how to verify if a tenant is current on rents

[David P.]

I tried searching and didn't find much results on this. Currently trying to get an offer accepted on a duplex out here in Los Angeles. One unit will be delivered vacant and other unit has a long term tenant that has been there over 10 years. The tenant is defintely under market but based on pictures and what the listing agent says the tenant is great and no problems. How does a buyer actually verify if a tenant is up to date on rent? I know you can request estoppels but does that actually tell you everything you need to know when it comes to tenants payment history. I will try to get the lease and security deposit of the inherited tenant but if the tenant is trouble i may want to back of the deal completely since the numbers will be even more lean towards negative cash flow.