When should you evict a tenant for late payments ?

[Randall Martinez]

Hello All,

I've been following BP for several months but generally don't post within the forums.

I have a tenant who recently fell into tough times, and has been unable to pay rent , in full, for about 2 months now. Our verbal agreement was that they would pay one month's worth of rent, into two separate payments, to help accommodate their situation.  At first it was agreed to be  only for a month or two, but now the tenant would like an extension.  

In the mean time, I've reached out to my attorney to see what my rights are, for evicting - in preparation, should the tenant fail to meet their obligation of paying in full. 

My question is , when should you evict a tenant for late payments ?

This tenant in the past has never given me problems, and has always paid in full prior to these changes, but I'm concerned if this continues, I will end up losing at the end. 

I'm not a person who deals with confrontation well, and I would prefer to give them a chance if possible, but at some point, I have to draw a line and get what's owed to me.

Has anyone else in the group ran across the same issues ?

How would you handle it ? 

[Justin Fox]

@Randall Martinez

I would try and press for full payment quick as possible.  Then try to get the tenant to leave voluntarily if you can.  Tell them if the house is is good shape, you'll give them their deposit back so that they can get into something more affordable.  Would make both of your lives easier.

If you can get this arranged, get it in writing and let the current tenant know you'll be showing the property a month prior to them leaving.

If they put up a fight, might just have to take a hit in order to find a more suitable renter.