Eviction vs Cash-for-Keys Calculator

Evictions take months and cost thousands. Cash-for-keys is often cheaper and faster. This calculator compares both paths.

Monthly rent (lost during eviction)

Expected eviction months

Eviction legal + sheriff costs

Expected damage repair

Cash-for-keys offer

Cash-for-keys turn days

Total eviction path cost

$12,700

Total cash-for-keys path cost

$3,260

Savings from CFK

$9,440

Choose CFK?

Yes — CFK saves money

How the math works

Eviction cost = lost rent during process + legal + damage. CFK cost = short turn + payout. When eviction takes 3+ months, CFK almost always wins on math.

Always get release in writing and witness the move-out. The goal is possession + clean break, fast. Don't chase old rent — it's gone; focus on the next tenant.

How to Use

Enter monthly rent.
Enter expected eviction months.
Enter eviction legal/sheriff costs.
Enter cash-for-keys offer.
Enter damage repair if tenant stays.
Read total cost each path.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cash-for-keys?

LL pays tenant a lump sum ($500-$5,000 typical) to leave voluntarily with keys. In exchange, tenant signs a release of all claims and a move-out acknowledgment. Fast, cheap, final.

When does it work?

When tenant has no equity or defense and just needs cash to relocate. Most tenants accept $1,000-$3,000. Beyond that, eviction may be cheaper if tenant is stalling.

Pitfalls?

Document everything: keys returned, premises vacated, written release signed. Don't pay until move-out complete and inspection done. Paying first = tenant may stay anyway.