Rent increase on bad tenants

[Renee R.]

Since I only have two years of REI under my belt, this is more of a check in to see if I'm going down the right path here and if there's anything else I could be doing.

I have trouble tenants that I inherited and their lease expires 3/31/16. I'm hoping they will not renew by raising the rent significantly—thinking of going from $1,295 to $1,500, the median rent for the area. I would give them more than 60 days’ notice (and would also provide the new lease at least 30 days in advance with the new rent amount). Any experience with how effective this will be? I’ve been told to raise the rent to $2,000, but I really wouldn’t be able to rent to new tenants at that rate. How would that look to a judge if I ultimately have to go to court?

I previously offered cash for keys due to other issues, but they wouldn’t budge. Due to the angry texts and phone calls from them, not to mention their other criminal behaviour (assaults, shoplifting with child in tow), I don’t want to reason with them or talk in person any more. 

I’m hoping the rent increase and the extended notice to find something else will get them out.

Anything else I should be doing?

[Mike Cumbie]

Hi @Renee R.,

Why not just send them a notice that you are not renewing at the end of the lease term? That allows you to be able to update the place, paint it or do whatever you want. You don't have to justify why you are not renewing to a judge or anyone else. You can then rent it out at whatever you feel is right (even if it was less). Raising the rent in hopes they leave sounds a lot worse to a judge etc than "I did not want to renew the lease because I had other plans for the property".

Not legal advice etc and not sure how things work in your area.

Good Luck!