Renter bought a house and wanted to break the lease, tried to work with them, advice

[Cali Skier]

We had tenants that had a lease that ends in 5 months and wanted to break it 4 months early because they bought a house. 

We chose to "work with them".  We said we would list the house and as soon as it was leased again we would prorate and refund for the remainder of the term.  

Well, it has not been easy to get it rented (January / February), and they are texting us regularly asking how its coming, how can they help, it is becomming very annoying.  Starting to regret our good will to help them because it's a hassle to get it rerented and they are getting on our nerves

We did put it in writing in an email that they owe us for the entire term but that we would work to get another tenant.  

Not ready to pull this trigger, but are we legally obligated to find a tenant or can we just tell them the offer has expired and that we are no longer seaking a tenant. 

[JD Martin]

Quote from @Cali Skier:

They actually did pay to the end, and yes, we intend to honor our word, but its getting annoying.

 The states that I know require you to try to mitigate your damages if a tenant breaks a lease early. That means that unless your state allows you to just keep their money you have to try to re-rent the house. We have an early termination setup that we use to avoid these kinds of issues. They pay a fee and go on their merry way. Easy and clean for everyone.