Wow, that is incredible!
I agree with what numerous people have said prior, the best thing we can all do as landlords is screen, screen, screen.
I am currently dealing with two tenants in Maryland, both were consistently 30-60 days late in rent payments. Back in the spring, I gave them 10-day notice prior to filing in court for the eviction process, as we must post on their door 10 days before filing that we intent to file for eviction and the form also lists places where the tenants can get assistance. One tenant did apply for assistance, and both tenants quickly made payments. A couple months later, we are at the same place, so back in August, I gave them notice and after 10 days, neither had made any arrangements for payment. The tenant that asked for assistance finally got their assistance and I dismissed the case against them. The second one started arguing that they paid July and August rent. I tried to explain that the payment made in July covered their back balance from June. Their August payment (paid on August 30, BTW) covered July. Somehow, they couldn't understand how that works. Then they tried to argue that their security deposit was their last months rent. Anyway, court date shows up and they do not show up. Judge rules in my favor. Now I have to wait another week before I can file a Petition for Warrant of Restitution. Another judge reviews the case, then orders the Sheriff to proceed with the eviction. Monday, the Sheriff posted the notice and we scheduled the eviction for next week. The tenant blows a gasket, asked the court for a new hearing, they were denied and the eviction is moving forward. To add insult to injury, the tenant tells the Sheriff's Deputy that no matter what, come Monday, he ain't leaving. Stay tuned, film at 11.
In both cases, I rented to these people as a favor to another, and did not follow my usual screening procedures. Never again!
