All Forum Posts by: Pat P.

A check was deposited in my account by a friend of my tenant to cover her rent - this check bounced.  This account the check was written on was opened just prior to the deposit and the funds were never available - check fraud - over $1000 also.  How do I go after this bad check - the bank it was written on states it was an obvious case of "Intent to fraud" - but will not give me the name of the person ( starter check) - any info would be appreciated.

We have 3 - 30k properties. Bought them 3...5. And 7 yrs ago. They are producing 32k a year before expenses in rent. Learning a lot every day. I start looking for new tenants 60 days before lease expires.New tenants can give their  previous tenants 30 day notice and we can keep our vacancy % as close to zero as possible. We do a thorough inspection and know exactly what needs to be done between tenants and have the right people tools and product ready for that day. If we can get in the last few days of the previous tenants lease to start work..we promise to get out the security deposit asap rather then waiting the 29 days legally we are allowed to. Everyone is happy and time is money. I also carefully screen each tenant and may go through 25 application before we approve one. It is a hectic few days but pays off for everyone.

I agree. This was a $123.94 learning curve. It could have been a lot more. And you learned a valuable lesson...just when you think you really know someone..sometimes you don't. It's usually best to stick with the written contract..then everyone is always on the same page. It was a lesson I had to learn as well.

Only when they're  late !  If I didn't they would walk all over me. I have not heard yet an excuse my mortgage lender would accept from me. Strictly business.

In our lease this is covered.  Proof of transfer of service is shown before the keys are given to the tenant.  Nowadays, with the smart cans, the transfer is merely two phone calls - it can be done while you are on the phone with them.  We have a Lanlord Assistance service where if there is a chance during the lease that the utilities are going to be turned off, we get a notice to protect our property form freezing etc. The utility compamy has made it quite easy for the transition now, and we can be protected at the same time - plus the utility company is usually always getting their money - everyone is happier is some way.  I read my own meters to conform also - but they can do that from the office now.

You might consider her a good tenant, but she will in the future be a better tenant - you did the right thing.  no feelings allowed - this is a business.  Why do you want to make it your problem - it is not - it is her's until you correct it.

We have had rental properties for 7 years now.  In the beginning I was all heart and took everything personally.  I  am always learning and now accept that there is nothing emotional about this - it is all business.  I will bend over a certain amount, but don't pay late because my bills need to be paid ontime and your excuses will not be accepted by my lenders.  The first ten day notice I had to give, I didn't sleep for 2 nights.  Now I have them ready to go and all they need is dates on them and a stamp - less then a minute and they are in the mail. My tenants know this now and all future tenants will know it.  It is easier for everyone if they know what is expected of them, and the price to pay if they choose not too.

I had one possible tenant interested in renting mainly because of facing south and free water - I refused because I do not allow smoking of any kind in our units, whehter you have a card or not, I don't care.  I have that choice I believe.  I have COPD and have trouble going behind a cleaning from a tenant that smokes - so we do not allow it.  It causes me not to be able to breath after entering the room even week later.

If you allow you tenant to use the security for the last months rent, you are giving up your security.  Never let this happen.  Retain your security deposit for what it was meant for - to protect the landlord for any damages.

Thank you Nancy for some well written information.  I have had a problem with a few of them with consistant lates.  I have adjusted due dates to fit the tenants, it usually works out best for them.  On the 5th day I start the late fee of $25 a day until paid.  The tenants have paid it and after a few of those, they have been on time.  I serve notice to quit on the 11th.  I would prefer never to get a late fee.  I like knowing when the money is coming in as I have bills to pay also.  This is a business Nancy.  Did I tell you this is a business.  I had to tell myself that the first three years when I was giving them all every break in the book.  Now,,, it is strictly a business - nothing else.  Makes it so much easier - no more drama.  I have never been in court so I am not sure what the judge would think of the charges.  I should go and sit in on a couple of cases and find out for myself.

Thank you Nancy for a well written article.

Patricia - Brownstown - Downriver