Low Cost Eviction Alternatives

[Ryan Morrissey]

Have any landlords out there successfully executed any strategies for removing non-paying tenants aside from eviction?

We just tried offering cash for keys for the first time and that worked to get the tenants out quicker and they left the unit in better shape because that was part of the deal to get the cash. It still leaves a bad taste in my mouth though because i absolutely hate the concept of paying someone money after they just screwed me over for a months rent, but overall I would say it was pretty effective.

We did $500 for the cash for keys transaction and for the tenant to move out by end of month. That was for a unit where the rent was $850 and where evictions typically cost about $1,000 in attorney’s fees minimum, plus the judge usually gives them an extra month to move out. So we probably saved like $500 and limited the lost rent to 1 month instead of 2-3 months.

Has anyone tried any other strategies that have been effective? For others who have done cash for keys, how much do you typically offer?