Дэйв Рэмси советует арендодателям проявить милосердие и вернуть депозиты жильцам, уехавшим помогать больным родственникам

Dear Dave, I have a tenant whose old agreement is up soon, but he signed a new lease about a month ago. He also went ahead and gave me a deposit, plus the first month’s rent. A couple of days ago, he called and asked if we could cancel the agreement. He learned that his ex-wife has developed a serious health issue, and he’d like to move closer to her to help take care of their two kids. What should I do? Randall Dear Randall, I think I probably understand your situation better than most. I own several rental properties, and I know for a fact that as a landlord you run into all kinds of unusual situations. Sometimes, these situations are more genuine than others. I’d first suggest gently asking for some proof as to what’s going on. But on the surface it sounds like he’s got a valid, kind-hearted and very responsible reason for wanting to cancel the agreement. Essentially, this guy is asking for a little mercy and understanding. So, if it were me, and what he’s telling you turns out to be true, I’d try to lease the place to someone else as quickly as possible. I’d also refund his deposit, plus any money it doesn’t cost you in the process. In other words, if it took two weeks to find another tenant I’d give back the deposit  and  two weeks’ rent. But if his ex is in seriously bad shape, and you’re on solid enough financial ground to withstand the blow, you might want to consider just letting him out of the agreement completely, returning all his money and moving on to finding another tenant. As a landlord and businessman, I understand you have to look out for yourself and your concerns. But at the same time, you don’t want to take advantage of someone who’s genuinely struggling, either. — Dave * Dave Ramsey  is a nine-time national bestselling author, personal finance expert and host of The Ramsey Show. He has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people take control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.