mentally unstable tenant trashed section 8 unit

[Barbara Chan]

We are contemplating buying a distressed property with a tenant that faced eviction because when he trashed his unit it became uninhabitable. Apparently his sister is stepping in to make repairs and keep him there.  Of course it makes us uncomfortable as we are not sure what else he may be capable of doing. There are broken windows on the building and we are not sure if he did it or there is crime in the area. It is the worse area of a decently good town.

Has anyone had experience dealing with tenants like this? We would like to know what issues we should think about in a building like this. We appreciate any feedback!

[Sylvia B.]

I would not purchase the place unless the problem tenant was out before closing. You are in one of the most tenant-friendly states there is, so getting him out may not be easy. You say he is "mentally unstable." Is that your evaluation, or a medical diagnosis, which could be considered a disability? Do you really want to get involved in a court case with him claiming that you are not making reasonable allowances for his disability?

You say this is the worst area of town. Why buy there? You are much better off buying the worst house in a good neighborhood than the best house in a bad neighborhood. A distressed property in a bad area? Pass.