New Tenant Wants Everything

[Syed Ahmed]

Hi everyone,

So I purchased my first place and everything went smooth. Found a tenant who fit all my criteria, passed credit check and background check. We did a move in check and I went over lease in detail. The first week they move in, they are asking for things to upgrade house, screens. Ceiling painted etc. I have been very polite and explained that the house was rented as is and the move in check list was a security for both parties at move out, not a repair list.

They are a nice family. I need advise on how to deal with this without losing a potential good tenant

Thanks

[Victor N.]

My answer is always yes we can do that and rent will increase by $x. I usually figure a 12 month to sometimes an 18 month payback. This takes away the power struggle and finds out how badly the tenant wants the improvements. If they agree, they just improved my property and invested in living there longer. If they say no, they made a financial decision and you didn't deny something they wanted.