Newbie here , need direction with existing tenant :)

[John Walter]

I've been dipping SFH for about ten years and just recently bought a duplex with existing tenants , they have both been there over 2 years , one elderly , perfect tenant! Clean , pays on the dot by mail . Second tenant has always paid cash , last owner obliged . BUT... He's a slob , dirty dirty everything , recently started slow pay due to a couple new jobs . What's the best way to line him up , clean him up and direct payments thru mail ( he always wants a receipt immediately when paying ). Or is it preferable to give him 60 day notice to vacate ? Do they stop paying ?

[Marcia Maynard]

Are both tenants on your rental agreement now or still under that of the previous owner? That will make a difference in how you proceed. Are they under a MTM agreement or a long term lease? If MTM, with proper notice, change the terms of the rental agreement to address how you expect tenants to keep the property. Whatever the case, I suggest you meet with the tenant in question and let them know your concerns and your expectations. It may take awhile for the tenant to adjust to your management style. Be open and honest with them. Also, be swift, firm, polite, and fair when you address issues.