Tenant Wants to Move Out Before Lease

[Justin Yurong]

I am self-managing my single-family home rental in Fresno, CA. My current tenant just notified me that they would like to move out by the end of next month. However, their 1-year lease is effective for 6 more months after their desired move-out date. They have been fantastic tenants so far. They are set up on automatic rent payments, and they have never been late. They send maintenance requests as needed, etc. 

My lease allows me to have them pay any costs associated with their breach of lease, which includes the rent they would have paid if they stayed the whole term.

How have you all handled situations like this? Any piece of advice helps. 

[Brandon Sturgill]

@Justin Yurong Part ways as cleanly as possible, require they leave the place in move-in condition, wish them good luck, and find a great new tenant.

I know folks first reaction is to fight this situation, but think about the long-term...you can send them a bill for the remaining balance, which is fine...and maybe they pay, but very unlikely. Then the alternative is court action...attorney fees and court costs...dragging on...maybe small claims court...it's all pretty messy.

The scenario sucks for sure, but weigh alternatives.