How long should we ask tenants to sign a lease for our rental property?

[Victoria Silva]

Wondering if my husband and I should ask for more than a one year lease for our duplex...both units are now occupied... for a 1 year lease...but should we ask for a 2 year lease instead?

Thank you

Victoria 

[Elizabeth Colegrove]

the first lease I only do a one year lease. I have been burned to much with a longer that it's not worth it. At renewal if they are a good tenant I will offer a 2 year lease at half of the increase of a 1 year lease. This way I lock in a longer lease and the tenant has proven themself. I always increase it a little so it doesn't get below market. 

This strategy works for me because I have a break lease clause. So if they decide to break their lease I am compensated!