Re: Shocked at all the LL Haters on here these days!

Re: Shocked at all the LL Haters on here these days! by Old Landlord on June 5, 2012 @16:22

When I first became an "accidental landlord" (my home was underwater and I could not sell), I was naiive and accepted most tenants at their word.

I got burned very badly. 1 tenant failed to pay rent for 5 months, even though their paperwork checked out (steady job, decent income). They basically lied on the background check.

Another tenant lied to me about the # of occupants. Used his credit/income to qualify for the property, but then snuck his entire family and in-laws in without my consent. This tenant also called me incessently over petty things that were really HIS responsibility (like changing light bulbs in bathrooms).

Another tenant intentionally damaged the property and threatened to sue me if I used the security deposit to clean the mess he made.

All in all, I was a very nice landlord but the past experiences have taught me that behind every good tenant, there are 3 other tenants who will look to take advantage of you. I have found that even with proper screening - you just never know.

This thread upsets me - landlords are only evil if you, the tenant, engage in despicable behavior that entitles them to react that way. From now on, I am extremely skeptical when screening new tenants. A good tenant is really worth their weight in gold, but sadly - I find that most of my good tenants in past years were good for a reason - they are all homeowners now.

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Re: Shocked at all the LL Haters on here these days! by Tabby (GA) on June 5, 2012 @16:55	[ Reply ]

I think it's time to consider some forum changes. Perhaps the OP can create their own "bash a landlord" forum. Personally I come here from the advice from other landlords and not the problems of tenants. They are completely different issues. I think some tenants have been advised well here but some - who are usually in the wrong can't seem to deal with the reality of their situations and move on. I think there is one person behind most of this and taking your frustration out on people you know nothing about is childish.