Today is the first Friday of the month and the office is busy with rent collection.

I once told a tenant that if he could give me an excuse that I hadn’t heard before, he wouldn’t have to pay the rent that month. I dared him. Repeatedly. Go ahead.  Give it your best shot. Why would I do this?  Because I knew this guy was lying from the beginning of the conversation.

A good Property Manager can almost smell a lie coming. Unfortunately, I have had a great deal of experience. I have heard every lame excuse imaginable from the very simple to the ridiculously elaborate.

Simple would include “My welfare check didn’t come in, “My car broke down”, “The kids are sick,” the ever-popular “They cut my hours at work,” or my personal favorite, “I forgot.”

Some are more original like “I used it on a downpayment for a house and the real estate agent won’t give it back,” or “I don’t want to live here anymore and I need to save up for another security deposit,” or “I had to go buy stuff to clean the yard because you said I have to keep it clean,” and “I’ll pay when I get out of jail.” 

Now, of course, there are many times that a tenant has really fallen on hard times, especially in the current economy. And I am more than willing to help them out.  But don’t ask me for help and then I drive by your house on Friday night to find a full-blown luau happening in the front yard, complete with big white tents and a disco ball. 

As I tell every new tenant, we will have a fabulous relationship as long as you don’t make me chase you around. Call me and we’ll work it out.  If I have to go looking for you, I will find you. Remember, I know where you live. 

It might also be a good idea to send me an invitation to your party.

🔑 Never, ever let a tenant manipulate you emotionally about the rent. If you have done this, it is time to hire a Property Manager.