Tenant’s car damaged

[Nelson Tamayo Carralero]

Hello everyone I am a new investor in need of advice. A couple of months ago I bought my first house with the FHA loan. There were some repairs required by the FHA for closing but the previous owner refused the do them, so I did them myself, it was only painting some areas. Unfortunately the tenants cars were not far enough so the wind blew some paint over their cars. The previous owner didn't help at all and the house is now mine so it's the problem. The landords are demanding me to cover the damage (which I know I should do) but they are going to the most expensive auto body shop and are just giving me crazy expensive quotes. I live in NY by the way, any options for me? My lawyer is only telling me to pay them whatever the quote says because in his opinion if we go to court they win. What else can I do?

[Robbie Young]

I agree with the detailing. Let them know you require the vehicle to be professionally cleaned first. In some cities there are even detailers who will drive out to the car. Take before and after photos yourself for law suit purposes. Also depending on the age of the car it may be cheaper on you just to buy the car then resell it. For an older car, the damage could reduce the price less than the cost of repair. You don’t have to pay $5000 for a new paint job on a $3000 car.