Detroit Metro Area landlord caught in Eviction Moratorium Net

[Phil Parris]

We have a rental property in which the tenant was kicked off Section 8 right before COVID hit.  Tenant wouldn't answer calls, email or text, and hasn't paid a dime. We took tenant to court (36th district). Hearing was in Feb and judge granted a 3 month adjournment without even hearing the plaintiff (our attorney)..SMH. Next virtual hearing is this month. Now that the moratorium has been extended until June,(thanks Joe) we anticipate tenant may get yet another adjournment. I've heard landlords may be eligible for landlord assistance programs providing about 80% back rent. However, even if offered this assistance we are skeptical about taking it.   Additionally, we are almost positive tenant is receiving unemployment, stimulus checks, and other income but just wont pay.  Really feel like knocking on the door but was advised by attorney not too as this could cause "tension" and favors toward tenant.  Anyone other landlords experiencing this?   

[Tim Bryant]

Sorry to hear that. I invest in Detroit, too; thankfully, it hasn't happened to me. I was close though, relationship’s have been vital for me. I did knock on the door, I was able help the tenant get back on track; I comprised for a short time, but I got them out while still keeping some income coming in. I know they don't all work out like this, the court was helping me. I had to jump in. Good luck!