All Forum Posts by: Theresa Harris

In some areas laneway or carriage homes are quite common (ie two homes on one lot-usually one is smaller).  If you are going to be renting both out, think about common space (eg yard) and access to parking.  From a landlord's perspective, it is not much different than renting a duplex or a basement/in law suite where you have to separate tenants in one area.

I'm sure most places don't require signatures. My suggestion for having it signed was more to give you proof that you gave it to them, when and that they received it...just in case they say they never received it. 

 At least they are being honest.  Good luck.

If she's honestly going to do better paying the rent, you could give her a chance.  To make it easier for you (ie less stressful), you may want to break her rent into two payments (ie 1st and 15th).  You can add late fees if you want.  Also if you do it month by month, you can give her notice at anytime.  I'd also check if she's currently on her utility bills (if they are tied to the house rather than the person living there).

Follow the procedures for eviction and make sure you name the person on the lease and all occupants (ie literally write 'all occupants').  If you know for sure they stole someone's identity, you could also let the police know.

If you've been able to save $200K while making $17K/yr, you are doing a great job saving.

I'd be wary of a condo with almost no real reserves. I'd try to look for a single family home in an area with no HOA if possible. Meanwhile talk to a bank and find out if you'd qualify for a mortgage and if so, how much.

Charge them for the cost of repairs.  If you did the cleaning and repairs, you aren't going to be able to charge for your time.  I'd also charge him for disposal of the couch.  Even though he may have bought the couch, you don't know if it was new or not and it may have come that way.

I'd be reluctant to add him to the lease because if you do and she moves and he doesn't, then what are you going to do?  I do agree with Nathan, but I'd also find out what he's in for and a bit more about him.

tough spot-there are organizations he can reach out to for financial assistance. Also if he does have a home, can't get get a HELOC to borrow money to cover the rent?

I agree with Austin.  As long as no customers are coming on site, I wouldn't worry.