Day One Hundred Ninety One...

There are several indications that you need to maybe evict a tenant. One hint would be when they quit paying their rent, although that is not always what it seems. I know it might not make sense, but sometimes, folks just forget to pay their rent, like when they go on vacation to Ireland or something (I am not kidding). But, just because someone has not paid their rent is not always an indication that the tenant doesn't want to live there anymore! Whatever... In this particular case, the tenant lived in the property for a couple years, and was always a problem tenant. Rent was not paid in June or July, the tenant (allegedly) moved out on Tuesday (three days ago). We walked the property on Thursday to verify she was gone (before we filed eviction). Clearly (in the words of our assistant Tom) this petrified lizard has been there for more than three days. Notice the delicate skeletal remains...notice the trail of ants, notice the...well, you get the idea. I can tell you some really interesting stuff about what we find inside of vacant (and/or abandoned) properties, but some of you might be having a snack while you read this, so, if you want more details, send me a note, and I will deliver them to your in-box!

It is the end of the week, and the heat is taking its' toll on air conditioning units, water pipes, anything mechanical in the attics of properties, you name it. Life has been really interesting, BUT since it is Friday, we are all trying to cope. I also think the heat is having the same effect as the full moon. You know, the word lunatic is derived from the word lunar, moon. So, I think we need to come up with a new word for people who are driven crazy by the heat. I am going to start pushing the word 'holycrapbatmanitshot' as the new term to designate a psychological malady caused by continuous exposure to temperatures in excess of 100 degrees in the shade. You are welcome to jump on the band wagon and regionalize the word as well if you like. Full disclosure will be appreciated. Let me know if you need and printed material or other marketing collateral for your regional promotion of 'holycrapbatmanitshot'.

Jody had another appointment in Austin about mid-morning today, so he drove himself in, and arranged to have lunch with a friend of his. I think we are going to an auction tomorrow, just to see what we can find. Our hired man is supposed to be at the house on Sunday, so that will be good. In the meantime, try to stay cool, do a good deed for someone who is in need of a good deed, and remember to have fun!