While being a landlord can be lucrative it also comes with its fair share of difficulties and Glen Jasmer’s heartbreaking story provides some real life examples of the worst case scenarios that landlords may have to face. His wife’s house was trashed by tenants who stopped paying rent, and despite his best efforts, the legal process to evict them dragged on for years. It is a story that should serve as warning bell for all landlords. This blog will discuss what happened and most importantly, give tips on how other landlords can avoid falling into similar traps.
Glen Jasmer’s Heartbreaking Story
One saddest tales is that of Glen Jasmer who was forced into becoming a landlord after inheriting Dana house after her death. The property was rented out when she died and in 2020 it turned into a nightmare for Glen. The leasee did not only fail to pay their due rents but also used it for waste disposal making him incur losses amounting to almost $50,000.
For over three years, Glen battled these renters in court. More difficultly, they were represented by an organization called Housing Justice Project which is publicly- funded. In spite of many attempts to take back possession of his property legally took forever thereby putting him through unimaginable psychological and financial stress.
Finally winning the case meant too much damage had been done to the building hence he had no choice but sell it off because he could not afford repairs worth more than $30,000 that was estimated when he realized it would never be what it used to be.
Lessons Learned: How to Avoid a Similar Nightmare
Glen’s experience reminds us about the potential land mines in being landlords: however, land lords can protect themselves and prevent this kind of experience from happening by following several steps.
Thorough Tenant Screening:
One way you can keep problems like this from happening is by effectively screening tenants. You can learn a lot about someone’s reliability as a tenet by doing a thorough background check that includes looking at their credit score, calling their employer and contacting previous landlords for references.
Expert Tip: If you are unsure of how to conduct a proper tenant screening, consider hiring the services of an experienced background screening company to get all the details you need. Such companies can provide comprehensive reports beyond just the basic checks.
Clear And Enforceable Lease Agreements:
Make sure your lease agreement is comprehensive and enforceable. It should contain specific clauses on payment of rent, maintenance of property and consequences for violation of these terms. The lease terms must be understood by both you and your tenants.
Expert Tip: In order to ensure compliance with local regulations and protect your rights consult with an attorney before entering into or drafting your own lease agreement.
Regular Property Inspections:
Conduct regular inspections of your rental property to catch any issues early. These inspections should be included as part of the lease agreement. Regular visits can help you identify problems such as unauthorized occupants, property damage, or neglect.
Expert Tip: Every inspection should be documented using pictures and notes which might come in handy in case of legal disputes between landlord and tenant.
Landlord-Tenant Law Awareness:
Landlord-tenant laws are different across jurisdictions and keep changing. It is important to be aware of these laws so that you can effectively engage in disputes and avoid most legal pitfalls.
Expert Tip: Join a local landlord association or hire a property manager who keeps up with the newest regulations and statutes in your area.
Rent Guarantee Insurance:
Rent guarantee insurance gives landlords peace of mind by covering lost rent if a tenant stops paying. Besides, this insurance also caters for legal expenses concerning evictions, offering an economic fail-safe option when things go south.
Expert Tip: Look into various policies and providers to identify the coverage that suits your needs best.
Eviction Process Readiness:
While it’s good never to have to use it, being prepared for eviction is vital. Know what’s required under law in your locality including notices served and timelines to comply with.
Expert Tip: Let a lawyer who specializes in landlord tenant law or eviction services take care of the process properly and quickly enough for you.
Final Remarks
Glen Jasmer’s story shows how a property owner’s idea can quickly change into a horrible experience. Therefore, through tenant assessments, proper lease agreements, regular property check-ups and ensuring that one is abreast with the law may be effective ways of safeguarding oneself and one’s property from such occurrences. Dealing with tenants comes with responsibilities but you can escape Glen’s agony due to taking the right precautions.