If you’re a rental property owner who’s recently experienced the distressing scenario of a tenant leaving your property in a state of disrepair, be sure to delve into this article. We’re tackling the prevalent issue faced by landlords who find themselves exclaiming, “Help! My previous tenant has vandalized my property in Front Royal!”
Do you own a rental property? Did you have a tenant leave it in less-than-perfect condition? It happens! In fact, it’s an experience that probably every landlord has faced at least once. If you looked at your empty rental property and said, “Help! My tenant trashed my Front Royal house” then here are some things you can do about it…
Is it worth going after the tenant?
The first step entails assessing the magnitude of the damage and weighing the feasibility of pursuing the tenant for compensation. Unfortunately, in numerous instances, the advantages of seeking reimbursement from the tenant are eclipsed by the complexities and expenses involved. The process of seeking restitution can be laborious and financially burdensome, rendering it unfeasible for minor damages. However, if the damage is sufficiently severe to justify the investment of time and resources, you may elect to pursue this avenue of action.
Is it worth repairing the damage?
We’ve encountered a wide array of issues, ranging from holes in the walls to missing toilets – the spectrum of challenges is vast. Occasionally, a simple solution like patching up drywall and applying a fresh coat of paint can rectify the situation, prompting you to proceed with repairs and re-rent the property while acknowledging the inconvenience as part of the business expenses. However, if the extent of the damage exceeds what you’re willing to repair yourself, you might find alternative options worth exploring.
You could rent your house to a handyman
An often overlooked yet highly advantageous option involves seeking out a handyman who is interested in renting the property. In exchange for a reduced rent rate or even free accommodation, they can undertake the necessary repairs and improvements to restore the property to its optimal rental condition. However, it’s crucial to establish a clear timeline and expectations to prevent them from overstaying without making substantial progress on the renovations.
You could sell the house
Another option is to sell the house and move on from owning a frustrating rental property. However, be aware that if you try to sell the house on the open market, you may have to fix it up first in order for the agent to list it. Another option is to sell privately to a house-buying team like ours. (We buy houses in as-is condition and we’ll fix them up ourselves).