Tenant moved out after 1 month...what would you do?

[Geode Pratt]

I had a tenant sign a 2 year lease with me last month. She actually requested the 2 year term and paid double deposit. I received an email from her this morning stating there was an emergency back home (she moved from out of state) and she vacated the property. I am headed over to the property shortly to check everything out. 

Assuming no required repairs, does anyone actually go after these people or is it just easier to keep the deposit and move on to the next tenant?

This is my 3rd rental property and my first "problem". So any advice is appreciated.

Thanks.

[Michael Seeker]

I agree with @Rochelle Thomas

If you've got 2 mos of rent by way of deposit, then the only recourse you might have against this person is if you cannot get it re-rented in the next two months.  If you're not able to find a new tenant for 4 mos for example, you might be able to go after this tenant for 2 months of additional rent.  Hopefully you're not in a property that takes 4 mos to rent out though!