Tenant is still in the property after their move out date

[Sam LLoyd]

I'll try to make the story short.  Tenants gave proper notice to be out on the 30th.  I have a new renter signed and ready to move in by the 15th of the next month.  Former tenants are buying a house, but the closing date keeps getting pushed back (or so they say, though I don't have any reason not to believe them... and having bought properties before, I know all about delays in closing).  The incoming tenant has to the end of the month to move out of his previous place, and has been gracious in moving his start date out further.  However, now I'm told that they will not close till the end of the month now, and are not willing to go find a hotel or something for the week in between.  I've accepted money up till the 15th, which I understand invalidates the original move out date, but I have a statement in writing that they will be out on the 15th and the 25th.  I also have protection in my lease (for what it's worth) against the new tenant coming after me if there's no way he can move in on time, but I hate to put him at an inconvenience.  I could give them notice for non payment of rent, but then they will come up with money, and if I accept it, then they are entitled to stay there.

How's that for a tricky situation?  I'm hoping that the incoming tenant will be willing to stay in another unit I have that is vacant for a week or so until things get straightened out... and that they do actually close on their house and leave, but...... If hopes were wishes and all that.  Any advice or ideas would be welcome.

[Max T.]

Help the new guy out with moving and storing his large items. Offer free moving services if you have the vehicle for it. Also you lease should have something about "holdover tenants" where you can charge them double rent for the time that they stay past their move out date.