Is a payment plan any better or different than an eviction judgement?

[James Mc Ree]

I am a PA landlord and likely starting down the eviction path for the first time in 12 years. I informed my tenant their lease ends at the end of the month and am serving a 10-day pay or quit notice tomorrow. I offered the tenants an opportunity to establish a payment plan in lieu of an eviction and judgment if they leave at the end of the month without causing damage. Is that a good idea or does it even matter?

I am assuming that a judgment will be difficult or impossible to collect. Likewise, a payment plan may also be a fantasy. I am hoping the carrot of avoiding the eviction impact to their credit moves them along. Is there anything about a separate agreement to pay a debt that is more likely to succeed? I can't think of a reason for why it would, but thought I would ask the community experts.

[Stuart Udis]

@James Mc Ree Prioritize possession above all else. Payment plans are often just kicking an issue down the road to be dealt with later & judgments are as worth as much as the paper they are written on in most instances. Also make sure you are properly prepared. In Philadelphia this means  having an active  rental license. Without one,  you will have a difficult time pursuing any remedy.