Renter’s Advice and Resources

Renting an apartment in today’s world almost always includes a lease application. Background checks, credit checks and a person’s demeanor are almost always used when choosing a renter; and having a previous eviction on your record is usually a huge red flag. Most landlords will not grant a second chance to you. They are usually looking for […]

When reading a tenant agreement, it’s important to focus on the major issues first. The amount of your rent payment is more important than what state has jurisdiction over the lease should a dispute arise. Here are some lease clauses to read and understand when you get your tenant agreement: Rent and Security Deposit The […]

When you sign an agreement to lease an apartment, you are entering into a legally binding contract with your landlord. Like all contracts, the terms you agree on are negotiable. Understanding your rights and the negotiating process will help you to sign a lease with more favorable terms. Is Everything Negotiable? In some contracts, all […]

No two lease agreements are exactly alike. Each tenant has a unique situation which requires a negotiation of the terms or the addition of more terms. Knowing the different terms of a typical agreement will help you negotiate the best agreement possible. Lease Term This clause in your lease agreement is straightforward. It lists how […]

Before you sign your lease, it’s good to review the key terms found in a sample lease agreement.  A lease is a mutual agreement between a landlord and tenant that lays out the expectations for living in the apartment. It includes everything from how much you’ll pay for rent to your promise not to be […]

Lease documents vary in size and complexity, depending on the landlord. The general purpose of lease documents are to set forth laws and regulations designed to protect the landlord, and to a lesser extent, the tenant. When reading the lease documents, there are some important pieces of information you should pay special attention to. Things […]

Your rental agreement, a legally binding contract between you and your landlord, can’t be broken by your landlord unless you have breached it in some way. Understanding why the landlord has broken the agreement, and the steps you need to take, will help minimize any damage to your rental history. Why Landlords Break Rental Agreements […]

When considering lease termination, nothing replaces the advice of an attorney that specializes in real estate law. However, there are a few general things to keep in mind should you decide to terminate your lease early. Read the Lease Agreement Carefully This is key! Lease agreements can be very confusing and full of legal jargon. Read through […]

The need for flexible leasing may be important for a myriad of reasons. Contract employment, college graduation, marriage, or any number of issues may cause renters to realize the need for a month-to-month lease. Short-term, month-to-month, or flexible term leasing may not be as difficult to obtain for an applicant as first thought, despite the fact […]