1 year lease tenant moving out 6 months into it

[Jimmy S.]

Tenant signed 1 year lease and is moving out now into 6 months of the lease. She got laid off work but now was hired back and thinks its still best if she moves out.

I have last month rent and security deposit. She is cooperative with showings and keeps the place is fairly good shape. Although I did discover a pet rabbit which she is NOT allowed to have.

She is moving out oct 1st and I should have a new renter October 15th. I have spend alot of time posting the ad, 10 showings and other things that really add up for my time.

What would you do with last month rent and security deposit? Keep it all or give mabay half back? I want to be reimbursed for my time and not to mention im allowing her to terminate the lease. Lease states she will forfeit last months rent and security deposit but really dont think I should keep $2200 if I have a new renter as soon as she moves out. 

What would you do?

[Mike M.]

I'd look at PA property law for guidance on the max you could do. Personally, I'd deduct for damages, and may consider 1/2 the monthly rent as you've got someone lined up on the 15th. Assuming the place isn't a wreck, I'd probably chalk up the time invested in finding new tenants as part of the gig.