I’ve been conflicted about this subject, but it’s one that’s going to come up for many land purchasers.

Keep in mind that I don’t give legal advice and you’re responsible for the consequences of your actions.

Here’s my background:

Last year, I purchased 5 acres of unimproved land.  There’s no power, water or septic.

The previous owner has parcels adjacent to mine.  For various reasons, he offered one of the parcels.  It’s 2.5 acres, would give me easier access to the top of my 5 acre parcel, and it’s improved.  It even has a telephone line and an RV hookup.  The well is incredible–37 gallons per minute when installed.

My needs have escalated.  I need to build a home quickly.  There are a lot of reasons for purchasing the new parcel.  So, we agreed to the offer.

The title company we use manages our payments and also took care of filing the purchase with the county.  I received the filing number and a copy of the contract.  This is the point where I can start the eviction process.

First, I want to say that I have no issues with the renter.  As a neighbor, there have been no problems.  I don’t have any righteous indignation to make this easier.  I’m kicking a good person off my property.  Yuck.

Each state in the US has different procedures for evicting tenants.  There can be exceptions within the state as well.  Be sure to check your state laws and it would be smart to get legal assistance.

I’m required to give 20 days’ notice.  I wrote a letter giving until the beginning of May (about 33 days).  I made the letter as non-confrontational as possible.  I sent it by UPS, requiring a signature and also delivered a copy by hand.

Some things to keep in mind…  If at all possible, don’t drive on the property when you deliver the eviction notice.  Bring someone with you as a witness.  Understand that you are  turning the tenant’s life upside-down.  This is very stressful for them and it’s your job to keep your cool.

The tenant wasn’t home when I delivered the letter.  I ended up leaving it on the door (bring tape).  I ran into the tenant a little ways down the road and had the chance to talk with her.  It went as well as it could.  The tenant didn’t get abusive and I did my best to answer the questions that came up.

I’ll let you know how this goes in a few weeks.

–JS