Weird requests from tenants...What's wrong with some people?

[Jack B.]

I've had people who want to put in a fence, tear down walls, want me to remove my appliances so they can put theirs in, etc. Today I had a tenant want me to install a chain at the back door so that I couldn't get in. I declined, pointing out that unless he intends to change the front door lock on me to lock me out, it wouldn't do anything.

He started hemming and hawing, at which point, because this guy has been a bit dishonest about visitors staying extended periods, etc., I put my foot down and told him no, that it's an unreasonable request, that as the property owner I have a right to entry and I don't want to establish a precedent of locking myself out of some doors of my own properties for strange reasons, and that perhaps he would be happier as a home owner if he wants more privacy.  

Then there are the ones who call me and are eager to schedule a tour, but as soon as I ask them about their income, credit or criminal history, all of a sudden they mention they have an eviction, a felony, or make less than the rent. Really starting to get tired of some of the weirdos I have to deal with. I'm glad I'm an owner, as there are times I want to tell these people off.

[Elizabeth Colegrove]

Sorry you are dealing with these crazy request. Don't you love this part of landlording. Honestly the best thing I EVER did was strengthen my lease. I have 38 addendum's and its over 16 pages long. I have in my lease that keys are my tenants responsibility, that they have to pay for the first $100 of any repair etc. It is amazing when they have skin in the game thing get a whole lot better, and they stopped asking ridiculous questions. It is almost like they respect me more, and I get less of these crazy questions.