Do Your Tenants Give You Homemade Fudge?

[Arnie Guida]

Went to pick up the rent and there was a little basket with my name on it on top of the rent check. Inside was some homemade fudge, How cool!

This makes me think of my Father. My Parents bought their 4plex in '66, which I still own, It was their only building. I was 9 at the time. When my Father would go to the building, it was upbeat and positive..."Hi Joe! Come on in for a beer!" Through the years I've seen the changes in landlord/tenant relations, but I strive to maintain a positive, upbeat relationship with my tenants. I love it when I hear, "Arnie's here." instead of, "The Landlord's here."

I've had my share of negative experiences, but overall, it's been good. Some say I'm too soft...maybe...but life is short, and I'm not in real estate for the hardball stuff. I always use honey first, then if it's not going to work, then I bring out the vinegar, but only as a last resort.

Yes, you can take it too far and get too close, of course, but I think we all know where that line is. But if you're there doing work and are offered a soda or coffee, etc...take it, even if you're not thirsty, have a little conversation, it goes a long way in good will. Don't be "above" them.

Try and keep it positive, it's much better in the long run. Be fair and reasonable, but firm when need be. If tenants raise their voices and get ugly in a dispute, resist temptation to respond in kind. Stay calm, your lease agreement and the law are on your side.

The fudge is delicious.