As any rental property management company in San Diego knows, these are hard times for renters, and unfortunately, we're seeing an increase in evictions due to these economic strains. And while you have to have compassion as a human being, you cannot let yourself be taken advantage of by tenants who cannot pay the rent. In San Diego property management, you have to realize that business is business, and not to take business personally.

A philosophical way to look at this situation is this: If the persons you evict in these circumstances are negligent and not trying to help themselves, you won't change them. They will be the same way down the road and on into the future. You cannot afford to have them living in your building. If they are well-intentioned and trying to help themselves, they will not be harmed by vacating your premises. They may even agree to do so willingly. They will find a place to live with relatives or in a shelter even and they will come through the hard times, just like the rest of us, and be better for it in many ways. They will get on their feet again. But you will not be helping them by letting them stay for free, and they cannot help you in your business because they can't pay the rent. So a parting of ways must take place. Wish them well and make it as amicable as possible.

Most of us are struggling right now and we shouldn't forget that. But at the same time, we have a business to run and our own children need food and shelter, so you have to remember that business is business.