As it came to pass, my suburban tenant submitted a 30-day notice in mid-February 2021 to move out. What follows is business per the usual. Nothing uncommon, just the standard tenant giving a final move-out day and hand over the keys. Walk the property checking for anything out of the ordinary. Thankfully I don’t have any horror stories with previous tenants. And this particular property has always been a good stable performer. In the 10 years of ownership, it’s only had 3 tenants. The search for the 4th tenant however, would be an interesting adventure. 

The month of March began in earnest to make the necessary updates and repairs. Nothing extravagant. Normal wear and tear to the property. Blinds, an occasional ceiling fan, A/C maintenance. At times a new stove. Point is to get all this done while the property is vacant. 

Interestingly, Nidal (the tenant that moved out) sent a text to call him. We spoke briefly and he was inquiring for someone he and his family knew quite well – their former neighbor. Seems she had moved out but was looking to be back in that same subdivision due the proximity of the school preferences for her children. 

“Here is her number,” he began. 

“And her name is Emily……”