[Tenant US-CA] How do I persuade an elderly neighbor to rent to me?
I (22M) met a couple (late 70s) near me who have owned their duplex since the 60s. The unit they don't live in has been vacant since a family member passed away a couple of years ago.
I would like to check out their vacant unit and potentially rent it when my lease is over (mid-August)
I know for a fact they sold a neighboring apartment building for a couple million, so money is not a concern.
When we met, they said they weren't in a rush to list the property, I assume because they don't want to deal with the headaches of being a landlord.
I am a chill person with a solid income looking to get a good deal. I’d be willing to help them with chores and I like being a good neighbor.
My current idea is that most of my “rent” could go towards light renovations and I would offer to coordinate all renovations (less stress on them).
The emotional aspect of this is tricky, as I’d be occupying a space that is sentimental to them.
As someone whose grandparents dislike change and tend to be distrustful, I’m not sure how to proceed.
Friends have recommended I work on getting to know them and offer to help out as a neighbor. Then, down the line, write them a letter and have the pay stubs, credit score (770+), and landlord references to back it up.
Any advice would be appreciated :)
EDIT: I phrased the renovations part wrong. I would not be doing the renovations. I just assume their money is tied up and they could/could not decide to use the money towards that. I would not take extra discount to coordinate with the contractors.
I'm not expecting something like 70% below market rate either. Just something slightly below but who's to say that's reasonable to expect