Steps to take for tenant ending lease early?

[Eric Luzier]

Hi everyone,

I recently purchased my first investment property, which is a duplex that I am house hacking.  I inherited a tenant with the property and gave her notice that I would not be renewing her lease, as I plan to move into her unit upon her moving out.  Her lease was supposed to end March 31st, but she asked if she could end her lease early (February 15th), and I told her I was okay with that.  With ending the lease early, are there any specific legal steps I have to take, or is it just a matter of returning her security deposit and sending her on her way?  I want to make sure I am doing this all correctly and ensure a smooth transition - any advice is appreciated!
  

[Greg Scott]

Read your lease and understand the provisions you have for early termination.  Usually, leaving early has penalties for the tenant.  Also, if the tenant changes their mind, they could stay until Mach 31.  So, if you mutually agree to a change, put together a short agreement that says you waive the penalties if they agree the lease terminates Feb 15.

Read your lease and understand the provisions about end-of-lease.  Typically you will have to do a final check-out and charge back for any damages out of the security deposit.

Good luck