Tenant "Promises" to Pay...Help!

[Claudia Schmidt]

My agent let a tenant into my property without paying the remaining balance owing. She was supposed to pay a full year up front. She has only paid 6 months, until Feb 28, 2011, but says she has no more money until March. I prefer not to take this to court, as the property is in Mexico and the process is very lengthy, and expensive.

Yes I am already looking for a new agent... :0)

Of course come March I am fearing she will still have 'no money' or disappear without paying. What are some of the things I could do to try and secure myself?

I was thinking of having her sign a 'promissory note', although I don't know how much that will enforce her.

And sign a post-dated cheque, although, again that would probably bounce.

Any suggestions? Thanks!