Skip to content
×
PRO
Pro Members Get Full Access!
Get off the sidelines and take action in real estate investing with BiggerPockets Pro. Our comprehensive suite of tools and resources minimize mistakes, support informed decisions, and propel you to success.
Advanced networking features
Market and Deal Finder tools
Property analysis calculators
Landlord Command Center
$0
TODAY
$69.00/month when billed monthly.
$32.50/month when billed annually.
7 day free trial. Cancel anytime
Already a Pro Member? Sign in here

Join Over 3 Million Real Estate Investors

Create a free BiggerPockets account to comment, participate, and connect with over 3 million real estate investors.
Use your real name
By signing up, you indicate that you agree to the BiggerPockets Terms & Conditions.
The community here is like my own little personal real estate army that I can depend upon to help me through ANY problems I come across.
General Landlording & Rental Properties
All Forum Categories
Followed Discussions
Followed Categories
Followed People
Followed Locations
Market News & Data
General Info
Real Estate Strategies
Landlording & Rental Properties
Real Estate Professionals
Financial, Tax, & Legal
Real Estate Classifieds
Reviews & Feedback

Updated 6 months ago, 05/21/2024

User Stats

3
Posts
0
Votes
Mohit Arora
  • Austin
0
Votes |
3
Posts

Tenant wants to break the lease before lease start date

Mohit Arora
  • Austin
Posted

I have rental property with signed lease (through Zillow) with starting lease date within a week. However the tenant is telling me they have personal issue and wants to move out of the lease or asking me options to break the contract. 

I checked the lease created through Zillow that does not show up any option for reletting but what I am aware (done it few times when one of my other property was managed by a property manager) is tenant could pay reletting fees (typically one month rental) that allows property to be re-listed. Tenant will continue to pay for utilities and any difference (or loss in rental) if home is leased for lower monthly rent than current lease term. 

I called Zillow and they told me they don't handle lease cancellation or changes but suggested to contact local attorney (I am in Texas/Austin). 

a) Take some penality and allow tenant to break the lease. 

b) take re-letting fees, list the house again and current tenant is bound to honor until it gets leased.

For both a) and b) I will still have to contact attorney as Zillow does not let me cancel the lease but only mark the lease cancelled once it is done. 

I would prefer b) for obvious reasons but let me know if there are other options. 

Appreciate any help/advice. 

Thanks,

Mohit

Loading replies...