Helping Renters

A $24,000 loss of revenue in January has forced a manager of a Wayne apartment complex to work with residents and prospective tenants on paying their rent.

Unemployment has reached about 10 percent for 2009, according to the Detroit News. Because of people losing their jobs, many families lost their homes. Many businesses have reached out to individuals to make a profit in Michigan’s economy.

Manager Janet Austin decided to help residents by allowing them to be late with rent payments. The occupant must call in advance to explain why the rent payment is going to be late. The plan is based on a private payment schedule created by Austin. Austin goes to court once a month and the Family Independent Agency weekly to deal with broken contracts.

“In a complaint, I show a created payment plan,” Austin said. “I realize it is hard for people to find jobs, but the minute the payment schedule is broken, I terminate the lease agreement.”

The defendant is responsible for all legal fees and late rent payments. If the resident is evicted, Austin has to call the bailiff to make sure the former occupant leaves the property. The eviction process costs Midtown Square Apartments about $600. The former tenant is also responsible for any damages to the apartment.