I had a first today. Well, maybe it is a second. Not very often do I pursue damages in small claims court after a tenant moves out and the rent owed and damages is more than the security deposit. First of all, most of my tenants are on a fixed income, SSI, Disability or has a very low income. "You cant suck blood out of a turnip" is what I was told by other landlords when I first started in this hobby. The cost of filing this type of claim isnt worth it. If I feel someone is of the character that they will someday down the line, get a good paying job or they might be wanting to take out a loan, I will go to court. (note here; defendants never appear to contest) In 20 years I probably have done this less than 10 times. Once a lady called and wanted to pay me back in installments each month because her bank wouldn't let her get a car loan. Of course I said. Never heard from her again. Couple other times I received full payment and usually it amounted to being under $200.
Today I get a call from someone I rented to over 10 yrs ago. Let's call him Gary. Gary got his life back on track and is now trying to get a loan but has to take care of a few debts first.
Would I be willing to take less than he owes? We went back and forth and I agreed to 200 less.
That 700 will come in handy tomorrow when I have to pay for the $800 repairs on my Jeep!!!!
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