This seemed bizarre, especially since she is the only adult child living here.
Earlier in her life, she hinted more than once that I should be stern with her.
That worked out quite well, but this would take the dynamic to a new level.
I cant imagine actually turning my daughter away, although I might surprise myself.
I could give her an ostensive timeframe in which to move out, and see what happens.
I could charge rent, perhaps at a rate that she would struggle to afford at her current income.
Is this a path we should go down?
Perhaps shes the punch in of person who functions better with rules and deadlines.
Your daughter clearly doesnt understand what it means tohave an eviction on your record.
An eviction can make getting housing more difficult for years.
This isnt some inconsequential adulting lesson.
I cant help being a bit suspicious of your daughters motives.
Could she be hoping to get sympathy from someone by saying her own mother evicted her?
But Ill assume that your daughter is being sincere and really does want you to be tough.
My advice to you would be different if you were trying to get your daughter out of the house.
But shes the one with the goal.
Presumably, she wants to move out and start living like the adult she is.
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Understandably, you dont want to evict your own daughter.
No Interest Til Almost 2027?
It sounds like your daughter has trouble making decisions for herself.
Then, you could offer her accountability.
Start by asking your daughter what exactly she wants to accomplish.
Press her to setspecific goals.
That will require thought and research on her part.
In the meantime, I do think you should charge your daughter some rent.
Theres no need to make it exorbitant.
Set a due date for rent each month.
Did you know?
Whats good is that it sounds like your daughter has some drive.
She clearly isnt content with living at home forever.
Her problem seems to be about articulating her goals and taking action.
None of what Im suggesting constitutes sternness in my book.
But if your daughter isnt used to clear expectations, it may come across that way.
Same goes for you if youre not in the habit of setting expectations.
Your daughter may very well need some nudging.
But consistent nudging will be a lot more effective than a single smackdown.
It will also take more effort on your part.
Youre teaching her how to become a responsible adult.
Robin Hartill is a certified financial planner and a senior writer at The Penny Hoarder.
Send your tricky money questions to[email protected].
(Can you sense my millennial sarcasm there?)
You know which ones were talking about: rent, utilities, cell phone bill, insurance, groceries…
