Q. Your comments in a recent column to an elderly person seeking advice on possibly renting out her home were unfair.
Suggesting to this person that she watch “Pacific Heights” is like telling someone interested in country life to see “The Amityville Horror.” Painting such a gloomy picture is as wrong as saying renting leads to the road of riches.
There are pitfalls to renting, as you suggest, but there also many benefits. A senior could get help from a trusted family member, attorney or friend in screening applicants and learning the ins and outs of renting.
Some older people might appreciate the companionship of a renter.
Although renting is not for everybody, someone who does due diligence may find it very rewarding. I wouldn’t recommend that my 80-year-old mother rent her house, but I do know seniors who have been successful landlords.
We have been landlords for years and have never had anything remotely close to a “Pacific Heights” experience.
I am sure you were looking out for the best interests of the elderly, but a more balanced column would have been more helpful.
A. I accept your criticism, and perhaps I was a little too harsh in my response. But as you point out, renting is not for everyone, and sometimes one has to point out the extreme risks to get the point across.
As always, I welcome comments and suggestions from my readers, positive or negative.