My tenant stopped paying rent...

[Account Closed]

Hello, 

I live in Montgomery County, MD and about 3 month ago I rented my basement to a single lady. I gathered one month security deposit and first month rent at the day of moving.  After the first month she stopped paying rent so I sent her emails/texts asking about the rent. Her rent is due on 1st day of each month. After sending several emails she finally gave me a very small amount with a check with 16 days delay and she promised me to pay the rest in couple of days. Today is 29 and Im still waiting for my rent. I sent her several emails but she keeps promising me to pay. What should I do? I already dropped all the late fees to keep her happy so I can get my actual rent. 

I really want her out of my apartment but I've been told if I go to court it might take up to 3-4 month. 

What should I do?

[Dana Dunford]

@Account Closed on the formal notice. You need to start the eviction process. It may take 3 - 4 months, but that depends on where you're located.

My best guess is that she has done this before and assumes you're an amateur by sending the emails and texts. If she sees a formal notice, then she may reconsider and it will take a much shorter period of time to get her out of there.

 Also, (you have probably realized this) ... make sure to screen your tenants properly. You can mitigate the risk of a bad tenant.