Evictions: What They Really Mean — and How to Avoid One
Eviction is one of the most stressful words in rental housing — for residents and for property managers. But before panic sets in, it’s important to understand what an eviction actually is, how the process works, and why communication is the number one factor that determines whether it can be avoided.
At FBS, we believe in transparency and fairness. Evictions are a last resort, never the first. And with early communication, most can be prevented entirely.
Here’s what residents should know.
1. No One Wants an Eviction
Despite what the internet says, property managers don’t “jump to evict.”
Evictions are time-consuming, expensive, and emotionally draining — for everyone.
We do everything possible to avoid them because the best outcome is always:
✔ The resident stays housed
✔ The balance is resolved
✔ The property remains in good standing
✔ No legal record is created
Eviction is only used when we have no other choice.
2. Why Evictions Hurt Residents the Most
Once an eviction is filed — even if it gets resolved later — it becomes part of your rental history. That can affect:
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Your ability to rent again
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Applications for future housing
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Credit screenings
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Deposit return timelines
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Your stress and stability
A legal eviction is far harder to bounce back from than a late payment or temporary financial hardship.
3. What To Do If You’re Struggling
Life happens. Job loss, medical bills, family emergencies — we understand.
When you communicate early, we often can:
✔ Arrange payment plan options
✔ Ask about options
✔ Delay legal filings
✔ Work with the owner for extensions
✔ Identify community resources
✔ Help you bridge a temporary setback
But we can only do that if you talk to us.
4. Turning In Keys Can Be the Smartest Move
If you know you can’t stay in the home long-term, surrendering possession voluntarily can protect your rental history and stop further charges.
When keys are returned:
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The eviction process stops
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No Unlawful Detainer hits your record
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You close your account cleanly
This is not giving up — it’s choosing the least damaging path.
6. When Evictions Move Forward
We only file an eviction when:
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Notices go unanswered
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A resident hasn’t paid and won’t communicate
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There’s no intention or plan to resolve the balance
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Legal deadlines are met and required
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Habitability or safety issues are at risk
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The home is being abandoned or misused
By the time we file, the situation has usually gone weeks or months without cooperation.
7. Work With Us, Not Against Us
We are human.
We are reasonable.
We want to help.
But we cannot help if we are met with silence, hostility, or avoidance.
The residents who have the best outcomes are the ones who communicate openly, respond quickly, and partner with us to find a solution — even in tough moments.
Final Thoughts
Evictions are hard.
They are emotional.
And they can create long-term consequences.
But most evictions are preventable if communication starts early and honestly.
If you’re behind, overwhelmed, unsure, or scared — reach out.
We are here to support you, guide you through your options, and help you avoid the legal process whenever possible.
You don’t have to go through this alone — talk to us. Let’s work together.
