Do you know the ONE thing that can be your best defense from
a bad tenant? While you can prescreen, call references, order a complete
background check, and verify employment, unfortunately bad renters can still
slip through the cracks. Then, what?
Having an ironclad lease is truly your best defense against
a lousy renter. If there is any room for interpretation within your agreement,
then your tenant will give you quite a battle, and the eviction could get
expensive. However, having all the rules outlined clearly in black and white
will give you a stronger leg to stand on if it comes time to evict.
Make sure the restrictions as they pertain to pets, smoking,
subletting etc., are made very clear, as well as the consequences for violating
the terms. Also, all of your dates, deposits, and fees must be spelled out so
there is no questions what your expectations will be.
Hopefully you won’t have to enforce the negative aspects of your
contract, but a good landlord can never be too prepared.
Download a free sample lease and customize it for all of your rental needs.
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