I think it can be an excuse, but I also don't think it hurts so long as you're coupling it with taking steps that keep you moving forward, even if they are baby steps at first.

Kids gone for good.Let’s say you were the landlord getting the excuse every week; and you are “helping them out” temporarily.

(You should always send a notice to everyone that is late--regardless of the excuse--once they miss the due date with or without a grace period.)  

A lot of homes on the market with tenants have issues with getting access because the tenants complain or make excuses why no one can come over.Just make you offer with contingencies that will eventually give you access for inspections.

All the excuses in the world do not change reality.

Remember, this is not an excuse contest.  

But you also don't want to give yourself any excuse to chicken out. 

In Pennsylvania, since security deposits have to be held in special escrow accounts, this is always a great excuse to insist that the first rental payment and the security deposit absolutely has to be in a money order.

And it's an excuse to dress up and wear nice shoes!

Not to make excuses for them, but they are a better part of our business I thought.