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Forum / Tenant Screening/Advertising / Tenant Paid a $500 Deposit, but never signed lease

I had a tenant lined up for 3/1/2017, and I only charged him a $500 deposit He literally paypal'd it to me (with no note or anything.. I thought was odd). and then I sent him the lease. He was suppose to have it signed by 2/15. By last Fri no signed lease. I texted him several times explaining I needed the lease singed, and he said I will get it to you on Sun, and I explained I needed it signed immediately. He refused. He stopped responding. I then sent a text that said if not signed by cob you forfeit the condo and any monies paid up to that point. He sent me a rude text stating that "he would get it to me on Sun, and I needed to chill." I politely reminded him this was my property, and I was refusing continuing the relationship as he represented too much risk, and I told him I would be keeping the $500.00 Tonight he sent me a text (a week later) telling me he was expecting the $500.00 back. I still have a condo with no tenant beginning 3/1, and since he did not sign a lease I have no recourse, but I am keeping the $500.00 ... he is threatening me now. My husband said "let it go" he has nothing.. besides it's like he just pay pal'd me the $500. Anyway... I did research, and it showed I was wise to get that from him and good for me. But do you think he could come after me? I mean I am sure he can, but is he due this back? This guy has been a nightmare btw, and my friend "realtor" told me to be very happy I got rid of him... bad news.

Felicia S, GA on Wednesday, February 22, 2017

RE: Tenant Paid a $500 Deposit, but never signed lease

This article supports my keeping the $500. I just need to cover the mortgage, and this does not cover in full. The potential tenant, I believe, was "window" shopping for a better opportunity and was putting off signing the lease in order to make a decision without being obligated to anyone. Well he lost b/c that "pause" was a RED FLAG. I don't have time to chase rent money...

Posted by Felicia S, GA on Wednesday, February 22, 2017

RE: Tenant Paid a $500 Deposit, but never signed lease

https://www.ezlandlordforms.com/articles/educational/3/653/my-tenant-backed-out-of-the-lease-now-what/

Posted by Felicia S, GA on Wednesday, February 22, 2017

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