Thanks everyone! I am so glad I saw this post.
Yes! Set the precedence early. I want to follow up on my story from above. So I have a relatively new tenant. I didn't even notice that she was late last month, but she told me she put the wrong zip code and the mail was returned.
This month, I asked her if it was sent via text. She told me it was sent on 10/31. But I never received it. I said it's the 2nd month, so there's late fee. She said she sent out another one on the 6th. But I didn't get it on the 9th. So I sent a warning:
*****************************************
Dear <tenant>,
This letter is a formal notice to you demanding that you make immediate payment of the unpaid rent due under the terms of the rental agreement covering the following property:
<rental address>
11/1/2013 November Rental Payment $xxx
11/3/2013 Late Fee Charge - $xx
____________
Total $xxx
As of November 9, 2013, your payment is 9 days past due. Your rent was due on 11/1/2013 at <rental address>. In rental agreement, it was stated that “tenants understand that this may require early mailing”. You may choose to set up recurring payment or direct deposit through your bank. Please contact me if you have any question.
Additional late fee charge will be applied if payment is not received by <today's date +5>.
This is a serious matter and your urgent attention is required. Failure to act promptly or repeat offence may lead to eviction proceedings. If eviction is sought, you may be responsible for additional charges, such as court and attorney’s fees, and your credit rating could be affected.
Sincerely,
Kelly
******************************
Within one hour, she responded. She asked if she can transfer me money or send it again... blah blah..
I told her I will stop by to pick up on 11/11 630 pm and help her set up recurring payment.
Tenant: no response
Me: wrote again to confirm 6:30 is good time
Tenant: no response for another almost a day
Me: texted her to confirm
Tenant: I might not be home at 630.. can I just transfer you the money online and you give me the account info?
Me: what time will you be home?
Tenant: No later than 830
Me: I will see you at 830
***************
Got there at 830, and I helped her set up the recurring payment. She then wrote me a check without the late fee. I said, "ughh.. you didn't include the late fee".
Tenant: "opps... I'll just write you a new one?"
Me: yes please
*****************
When I got home I got her check. She mailed it November 8th!!!
******************
I sent her another email with the check and the post date on the envelop... telling her to be open with me if she's going to be late. blah blah... I don't want to do eviction if I don't have to.
Sorry this is so long. I am going to start a blog. I am going to learn from this!
>_<
Thanks so much. This post was timely!!
Kelly
