Landlord Issues! Major~

[Mommy3]

Hi I live in Loudoun County, VA. While in the process of doing a quick sale on our home last year, we thought it would be best since we have children to go ahead and rent a home. Our landlord wanted a 3yr lease but we decided to sign on a 2 yr lease. It has been a little over a year now. My neighbors whom I later found out after moving in, my landlord owns their home as well, both the two properties were investment properties. My neighbors informed me that the landlord is quick selling their home and they are going to have to leave if the bank doesn't approve the offer they put in for it but that my landlord had no intentions on selling both the homes. A couple days later someone tries to enter my house with a key, I contacted the landlord. I then googled this address and found out that the house was listed that morning for sale, as a short sale. We called the landlord and he confirmed he was indeed selling both homes. We said fine thats all good and dandy we were staying here with the intentions of repairing our credit we are in no position at this time to buy anything. We requested a 30 day notice and wanted our (2 months worth) security deposit back. He says he does not have any money to give to us. We are welcome to stay here rent free for 2 months. We are in the works of sending him a certified letter and requesting he sign and send back. We can not rely on word alone. Should we seek an attorney?

 

[Michael Wechsler]

If your landlord states that he has no money and is giving you a free stay in the home for 2 months, that might not be a bad deal. I would send a letter - certified return receipt - of the agreement including mention that the letter acts as a termination of the lease as of the end of that date. Include whatever other provisions you may need as well, e.g. . You should send him a copy to sign as well - you are correct. The new homeowner will have a problem moving you out if the home is sold in less than 60 days and this issue would have to be disclosed by the homeowner. While having an attorney handle these matters is best and could pick up on small issues, I'm guessing the cost will outweigh the benefits and this can be handled appropriately. Best of luck to you and good work in being proactive.