
Subject: Re: Son leaving Apt. lease early Date: 12/1/2013 2:08 PM
Recommendations: 7
First, feel free to ignore any part of this that doesn't apply to your situation. I'm speaking as someone who's been in your position with adult kids.


There is no "Start Over." There is a continuation of the same issues, problems, strengths, in a new location and with a different set of obligations. Your son won't get a clean slate by moving out. He needs to understand that whatever he does or has done is going to have consequences, good or bad.

I second the advice to not ask the rental office for suggestions on how to proceed. They will mostly likely tell him whatever is to their advantage. There's lots of reasons to request a copy of his lease. He doesn't have to give them an explanation.

Most likely this household bought cable, etc. packages based on his income being in the mix and they've structured their spending around his share always being there. This is probably going to torpedo the friendship, so he needs to be ready for that. If the accounts aren't his, he can walk away, but he should expect some anger.

This is JMHO, but having had a kid who was the tenant left behind, your son should make sure his room and part of the common areas are as clean as possible. Documenting that might be a good idea, in case the remaining tenants blame any damage, etc. on him.

He needs to make sure he leaves apartment and mailbox keys behind.

That's a lot of funds to go through when your shelter costs are $420 a month. I hope he's got a good plan to change spending, etc. and that he's being very open with you about how he got into financial trouble and how he's going to get out.

Print the post  


TMF Credit Center
Post of the Day:
Value Hounds

Medallion Financial: TAXI!
What was Your Dumbest Investment?
When Life Gives You Lemons
Community Home
Speak Your Mind, Start Your Blog, Rate Your Stocks

Community Team Fools - who are those TMF's?
Contact Us
Contact Customer Service and other Fool departments here.
Work for Fools?