5th March 2009

More Tenant Antics

posted in Care and Feeding of Tenants |

So as it’s close to the beginning of the month, I thought it appropriate to write about an interesting tenant behavior. I find it very interesting that when a tenant needs something (a repair, new appliance, etc.) they will call during business hours, often multiple times, just to make sure that they have my attention.

Also interesting is the fact that when a tenant calls to let me know that they will be late with the rent, they more often than not, call after hours and leave a voicemail message.

Why, I wonder, is it SO hard for people to own up to their responsibilities? To talk about it? I mean, it’s not like I’m going to slap them through the phone or anything or even stare them down like the LOL Catz in the picture. In fact, I would venture to say that I have a relatively good relationship with ALL my tenants (currently) and there’s no need for that kind of tactic.

Actually, when tenants behave like that on a regular basis, they are automatically suspect in my eyes. It warrants a few after hours drive-by inspections. It might even warrant an official on-premise inspection it they keep it up.

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  1. 1 On June 11th, 2009, Stephen Spencer said:

    This is an interesting pattern that you’ve recognized. I’ve been reading the blog because I’m thinking about buying a property, and trying on the “Landlord” hat for a few years (I have a pretty sweet desk job, but have always had an interest in real-estate.)

    As a really good tenant that has a stressful month or two every year, I feel like I might be able to explain this phenomenon.

    When tenants need something, they call when they know you will be doing your job (normal hours.)

    When tenants cannot make rent, they call when they have time (which is after-hours because they spent the day resolving bigger issues like finding a job or taking care of their unemployment papers during business hours downtown.) If they are having trouble making rent, there are probably other things they’re having problems with too.

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