What is the best method...

[Shannon McKenzie]

Hello,  

We just purchased a house at a free and clear sale a month ago and got our deed today.  There are tenants still living in the property.

Is it better to simply evict them and start over or should we post notice that we will be needing them to sign a lease?

Do we now own all of the appliances in the property should they choose to move?  

This is our first time purchasing an occupied home and aren’t quite sure where to go from here.

Thanks!

[Josh Caldwell]

The first question that I have is who are the tenants?  Are they the tenants of the former owner, or are they the former owners?  The second question is how likely are they to pay?  If they are the former owners and they didn't pay the bank, they aren't likely to pay me.  If they are former tenants, then I want their credit scores and proof of previous payment or they are going to be leaving.