In Illinois the 30 days run from the first of the month to the end of the month.

I can likely convert one of the four 1 bedrooms to a 3 which will stay on the main heat source for the interim.  

Monthly we have brand-new never done this before students join.

@Jake LangleyRecommend exploring as many sources as possible to get referrals AND cross-reference them to get as much accurate information as possible.Check out NARPM.com, BP’s Property Manager Finder, etc.Also, encourage you to learn from the mistakes of others - by reading posts here on BiggerPockets about owners not having their expectations met by their current Property Management Company.

Any update...what did you end up doing 

If you leave it open-ended, they may take the TV, computer, and a few other items of value and leave you with everything else.

The company never paid the $ on time, but eventually always came through. 

Most people on here think the 3 properties is a horrible way to go but there is a group that goes this way and there is the group that starts off the 9 property way but then stops and focuses on paying them off to be in the little to no debt group and enjoy huge cash flow without as much work and never worry about making a mortgage payment or worrying about having the cash to buy a new roof. 

Hi John, I recommend reaching out to a local property manager (search on Google Maps) with many 5-star reviews to see what legal action you can take before the Sheriff is available to execute the eviction.Property managers specialize in landlord-tenant law and should be able to help you determine a path forward that doesn't require waiting 3 months after the lease ends.

I never heard of it the way your describe. are you talking about an escrow account?