Maryland Eviction Advice

[Brandon Allenczy]

Hey everyone!

I'm in a bit of an unfortunate situation. We just purchased a duplex in Hagerstown MD that is fully occupied; while we were under contract we had the seller provide the bottom unit with a 60 day notice to vacate (which is completely legal as their lease was month to month). The tenants then told me they needed more time, so I extended their date to vacate to 12/29, and gave them a cash for keys option saying if they are OUT on this day I'll pay them 1 month's rent.

My question is if they don't move out on the 29th, do I have to give them ANOTHER 30 days in the formal Notice to Quit? Or since we've already given proper notice can I legally move to the next step in the eviction process? Also, I understand the moratorium on evictions right now, but I'm hoping being served a notice will let them know we're serious about this and need them out. I don't believe these tenants meet the moratorium requirements anyway.

Any insight is appreciated!