As life progresses, you will undoubtedly find yourself in awkward situations, especially when it comes to moving home. Perhaps you’ve been offered a job that is just too good to pass up – but it’s in a whole other state! You may very well find yourself needing to get out of your lease. While breaking a lease is never a good idea, especially without notice, there are ways to do it without ruining your credit rating.
Try to Plan Ahead
If you know that there might be a chance you may have move in the near future, try to do as much planning ahead as possible. Before you sign your lease, read all the fine print. If your landlord is willing, you may even be able to get a shorter lease instead, which will protect you when you move. Why not ask for a six-month lease rather than a year?
Check the Legalities
Did you know that some states allow tenants to move out without being penalized before the lease ends? Of course, the most common use of these loopholes is when the landlord is not keeping up his or her end of the deal by not making repairs and so on. But, many states allow tenants to move out, with notice and documentation, in cases of domestic violence and military service.
Sublease It
The best way to move before your lease is up is to find someone to sublet your home. In most cases, your landlord must approve the practice, though some states do not even require that. In most cases, your landlord will be happy to oblige as long as your replacement is proven to be able to afford the rental.
Jon Huser
