Landlord Wants To Move In To Rental Home

Q. My wife  and I purchased a home on the Central Coast about two years ago with the intention of moving here after we retire.  Because of some changes in our circumstances, however, it is possible to us to move sooner.  Our problem is that we currently have a tenant in the property that is on a one-year lease.  We want to move in May, however, the lease does not expire until July.  Do we have the right to ask the tenant to move earlier?

A. My answer to that question is that it never hurts to ask.  If you have had a good relationship with the tenant, I would just pick up the phone and discuss the situation with him.  Quite often, the situation can be worked out between you and all parties are satisfied.  If the tenant is unwilling to move before his lease is up, however, you are legally obligated to allow them to stay until the lease expires.  If money is not a big issue with you, you might try giving them up to a month’s rent free as an incentive to cooperate with your plans.  Otherwise, wait it out and save yourself the complications.

If you have any questions concerning your rental property, please call my office anytime at (805) 474-0100. I always enjoy hearing from you! Nancy Puder is the property manager and owner of Signature Properties, 124 S. Halcyon Rd #D, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420. Service areas are The Five Cities/Beach areas, SLO, Nipomo and Santa Maria.