Keep or evict chronically late tenant ?

[Matt M.]

Hey BP, So I have a tenant in a SF property, since April 2017. Chronically late, normally gets caught up, and takes pretty good care of the property. I’ve finally had enough, and filed an eviction. Hearing was this morning. Owes me about 2 mos rent, he has 10 days to now either come up with all the $ or a plan that I agree to. He makes good $, it just appears as if “something” always comes up... my question is.. if he doesn’t come up with all the money, do I just file for possession and be done with him or give him one more chance?

[Bryan Scott]

Taking a quote from your post, "Hey BP, So I have a tenant in a SF property, since April 2017. Chronically late, normally gets caught up, and takes pretty good care of the property."

This is a pretty good step in the correct direction.  Having been a landlord for 20+ years, this is a good start.  Paying late, but paying, is a nail-biting relationship for sure.  Rather than giving this tenant the final boot, which undoubtedly will cost you (and him) an expensive turnover, why not ask him what he thinks would solve the problem?  In the past, I have adjusted the due date, set up 1099 type tenants on a quarterly payment schedule, requested (and received) 2-3 months rent in advance, sold the property via lease/option, etc.

I get that the norm is rent due by the 1st, late fee accrues on the 6th, but this tenant's situation apparently doesn't fall into the normal category, so ask the question, then evaluate whether you can live with (and accommodate) the answer.

Good luck!