This is not my original story - credit goes to u/Brave-Company2867 from r/MarkNarrations
Content Warning: harassment, manipulation, threats, inappropriate behavior, family conflict
First Post - June 24th, 2025
I’m a 33 year old woman who bought my house just before everything went crazy in 2020. It’s a large place with extra rooms that I turned into separate living spaces. My two younger sisters, both in their twenties, needed somewhere to stay during tough times, so I offered them rooms at reduced rates. Later, I also rented out the converted basement and attic to others looking for housing.
Everyone signed rental contracts, but it seems nobody really read them properly. They all thought I was just another tenant like them. The confusion arose when a friend inquired about renting my office room for her cousin. When I stated I owned the house, that information circulated back to my sisters and other renters.
Now, they’re all upset with me for not disclosing that I own the property. My sisters feel they should not have to pay rent to family, even though the money only covers their share of rising utility costs. The other renters want me to lower their rates now that they know I’m not just a random landlord.
I informed them that they need to decide by the December renewal whether they want to maintain their current arrangements or look for alternatives. They’re reacting as if I’m evicting them, while I’m simply asking them to uphold our existing agreements.
Only one tenant, the one in the attic, actually read his contract and understood I was the owner from the beginning. He hasn’t caused any issues.
I’m now feeling unwelcome in my own house, and everyone thinks I’m terrible. Should I have been more transparent about owning the house? Am I wrong for not providing family free housing when they are financially able to contribute?
Update 1 - June 27th, 2025
Thank you for the feedback on my situation. Things have worsened since my last post.
The tenant in the attic forwarded me screenshots of a group chat where my sisters and the basement renters discussed plans to avoid paying rent or pay only partially. They’ve also been spreading rumors about me to their friends and family, which has led to a flood of harassment in the form of calls and messages.
I’ve decided not to renew anyone’s leases except the attic tenant’s when December arrives. When I communicated this decision, chaos ensued, with yelling and accusations flying around. I even provided them with rental listings for the area, and they were astonished by the current market prices.
The harassment has intensified since I disclosed my plans to not renew leases. I’m amassing evidence for my lawyer and may have to issue 30-day notices instead of waiting until December.
Update 2 - July 2nd, 2025
My lawyer dispatched cease and desist letters and filed for restraining orders against those harassing me. The basement tenants have received their 30-day notice. One sister has since moved in with friends who dislike me, while the other is pleading to stay because she can’t afford to live independently.
I recently discovered that my tire was slashed and someone placed a tracking device on my car. The police are currently investigating. One sister has been acting very oddly, persistently asking about my whereabouts and demanding that I unblock her on social media.
The situation appears to be escalating, forcing me to work from cafes to escape the noise and disruption at home.
Update 3 - July 7th, 2025
A significant incident occurred that I need to relay. Upon returning home, I discovered the male tenant from the basement inside the main house without permission. He made inappropriate advances towards me, suggesting that we could develop a relationship as a favor for him staying longer. When I firmly rejected his proposal, he grew hostile and threatening.
Thankfully, my friend was on the phone during the incident and managed to call the police. He was subsequently trespassed from the main house, and I secured an emergency protection order. I had to show his girlfriend the security footage to clarify the situation after he lied about our interactions.
Currently, I’m surrounded by wonderful individuals from the attic tenant’s community who are supporting me while these other tenants finalize their moving out process.
Update 4 - July 11th, 2025
The problematic male tenant was arrested for breaching the protection order when he returned to help pack. His girlfriend is placing all the blame on me and accuses me of seducing him.
One sister attempted to steal my TV and tamper with my mail and internet service. Meanwhile, the other sister has introduced a guy who refuses to leave; I had to involve the police before he could establish residency.
Now one sister is pursuing legal action against me, claiming I’m withholding inheritance, which is nonsensical since I personally purchased this house.
The attic tenant shared his background with me; he was disowned by his religious family for being gay, and I provided him shelter when he had nowhere else to turn. His community has embraced me, for which I’m grateful.
Update 5 - July 15th, 2025
Things are gradually getting better. The LGBTQ community has been incredibly warm and supportive. I’m still dealing with the unfounded inheritance lawsuit and waiting for updates regarding the tracking device investigation.
The move-out date is set for July 26th, and I’m looking forward to regaining my peace. Sometimes, being kind to family can lead to unnecessary drama.