Potential inherited tenant behind on rent

[Ashly McGlasson]

We are supposed to be closing on on a property Nov. 22. The seller told us everyone was paid up and no one was behind. We did another walk though inspection with the current manager, and she informed us that one tenant was 5 months behind. 

What should we do? Make the seller handle it? Can we start the eviction as soon as we take ownership? Cash for keys? She's still in a year lease until April. But would rather have an empty unit to fill than a non paying tenant to kick out. Anyone that can help I'd appreciate!! 

[Nathan Gesner]

Originally posted by @Ashly McGlasson:

We are supposed to be closing on on a property Nov. 22. The seller told us everyone was paid up and no one was behind. We did another walk though inspection with the current manager, and she informed us that one tenant was 5 months behind. 

What should we do? Make the seller handle it? Can we start the eviction as soon as we take ownership? Cash for keys? She's still in a year lease until April. But would rather have an empty unit to fill than a non paying tenant to kick out. Anyone that can help I'd appreciate!! 

A few thoughts:

1. The seller lied to you, which is not comforting. What else have they possibly lied about?
2. The tenant is 5 months behind on rent to the seller, not to you. The seller has apparently opted to write off those 5 months of rent and just get rid of the problem. You are starting with a clean slate and nothing in arrears.
3. The tenant is problematic. I would keep a close eye on them and get rid of them as quickly as possible before they start pulling these stunts on you.