Cash for Keys approach in Maine

[Nathan Hann]

Hello ya'll!

I'm gearing up to turn over a unit that has a month to month tenant. I am in Maine and only need to give 30 days notice with no reason. That being said, this tenant has a tendency to jump to anger when approached with anything remotely negative. I am thinking of trying the cash for keys approach to avoid any potential pushback that may damage my property.

Anyone out there who has done this, any tips?! Do I give them the 30 day notice then approach them with this option? Can I include it all in the letter I am sending? Anything else you can suggest that you found to be successful in this approach (or wish you had done)?

One more bit of info, I am thinking of giving the tenant a 3 tiered option. Basically giving them less money the longer they stay in the apartment until the end of the month.

Thank you all in advance!

Nathan

[Chris London]

@Nathan Hann I realize your question was best practices for cash for keys and you were not asking if you should or not but based on what you have written I don't think this option should be on the table.

1. Give 30 days' written notice
2. Have a cold beer to drink after they verbally assault you.
3. If they are still there after 30 days start the eviction process (have another cold beer waiting).
4. If they trash the place take what you can from the security deposit and take them to small claims court for the rest. Alternatively, think of the cash you were going to pay them as cash you can use if they trash the place.