When you’re renting, learning that your townhome’s lease is up can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. You may feel as if you are in limbo, not knowing what to do next or where to go from here. It can also be difficult to figure out the best route for you and your family to find a new place to live.
On top of all this, there are often financial considerations that must be considered when looking for long-term housing options. With so many factors at play, you must take the time to consider all your options carefully before making any decisions about your future living arrangements.
It is helpful to remember that while there may seem like a rug being pulled from underneath you, taking some time now can save you from potential headaches down the line. Gathering information and understanding what lies ahead will help you make informed decisions regarding your rental situation going forward. In this blog, we’ll explain what happens next when your townhome rental lease is up, how to move forward, and other information to make sure you are fully prepared.
Find That Hard Copy Of Your Rental Lease
When it comes time to renew or move out of your townhome, one of the first steps is to locate and review your townhome rental lease. This document contains all the information you need to know about the terms and conditions of renting and any special rules set by your property owner.
What To Do If You Can’t Find a Copy of Your Rental Agreement
If you cannot find your lease, you should contact your property owner or property manager directly and ask them for a copy. They can provide an official version with all the details regarding your agreement with them.
Make Sure You Read The Full Rental Agreement
Once you have a copy in your possession, take the time to read through it thoroughly so that you are aware of all the terms and conditions set out by your property owner. Pay particular attention to any special rules that they may have put in place, which may not be covered under normal rental guidelines. These rules could relate to anything from parking to pet ownership, so do not overlook them.
By understanding the terms of your rental agreement, you ensure that you are fulfilling your obligations as a tenant and avoid any potential issues with your property owner down the line, regardless of if you decide to renew or start looking for other homes to rent.
Renewing vs. Moving Out: Should You Stay or Should You Go?
After reviewing the terms of your agreement, you might be wondering whether you should renew the lease or start looking for other townhome rentals. The decision to stay or look for other homes can be a tough one, but we have broken it down into some steps to make it easier:
Step 1: Evaluate Your Current Rental Home’s Living Situation
Take a good look at your current housing situation and ask yourself if you are happy in your current townhome. Consider factors such as location, the quality of the property, amenities, and the amenities other nearby rentals possess.
Step 2: Consider Your Financial Situation & If Renting A Home Is Right For You
Renewing your agreement is often cheaper, as you won’t have to pay for moving costs or potentially higher rent at a new rental home. However, if your current townhome rental is not meeting your needs or your rent is increasing, it may be worth looking into another house for rent in PA. Consider your budget and financial goals before making a decision.
Step 3: Research Other Rental Houses
The next step is to start researching other homes in your area. Look for houses in neighborhoods that meet your lifestyle needs and pricing. It’s important to shop around and compare different rental houses to make an informed decision.
What Happens After You Decide You Are Renewing Your Rental Agreement
If you have decided to renew your townhome rental agreement, there are also several other important steps to take to ensure you and your property owner are on the same page.
1. Contact Your Landlord or Property Management Company
After deciding to stay, you should contact your property owner or property manager to express your interest in renewing your rental agreement. This should be done well before its expiration date, as many property owners require tenants to give notice of their intent to renew several months in advance.
2. Have A Conversation About Renewing Your Home’s Rental Agreement
After alerting them that you would like to renew, you should ask your landlord about any changes or updates to the agreement, such as increases in rent or adjustments to terms. You should also discuss any concerns or issues you may have had during your tenancy and inquire about any plans for renovations or repairs to the house.
3. Review Your Rental Renewal Offer
After this initial conversation, your property owner will likely offer you a formal renewal offer. You should carefully review this offer, paying close attention to any changes or updates from your previous agreement. If you have any questions or concerns, you should speak with your property owner or seek legal advice before signing the agreement.
By following this outline for what happens after you renew your rental house, you can ensure a smooth and successful process, allowing you to continue enjoying your home for another term.
What Happens After You Decide You Are Not Renewing Your Rental Agreement
If you have decided that it’s time for you to move on from this rental home, here are the steps you need to take to make sure your rental agreement does not lapse:
1. Notify Your Landlord That You Will Not Be Renewing Your Agreement
You should notify your landlord or property management company of your decision not to renew your rent agreement. You should do this in writing and provide at least 30 days’ notice, as most standard rent agreements require. Be sure to include your move-out date, the new house’s forwarding address, and any other relevant details your landlord or property manager may need.
2. Make Sure Your Rental House Is In Good Condition When You Leave
Once you have notified your property owner, you should also ensure that your rental unit is left in good condition. This may include cleaning, repairing any damage you may have caused, and removing all your personal belongings from the bedrooms and other areas of the home. Your landlord may inspect the rental home before returning your security deposit, so you will want to ensure everything is in good order.
3. Return Your House Keys
Finally, you should arrange to return your house keys to your landlord or property management company on the day you vacate your rental unit. Be sure to follow any specific instructions your property owner provides regarding the return of keys and make arrangements for any outstanding rent or fees to be paid before your departure.
Let Us Help You Find The Right Townhome Rental in Pennsylvania at Burkentine Properties
Whether you are looking for a townhome rental with a few extra bedrooms or need something temporary before you find your forever home, let us help you throughout that journey at Burkentine Properties. Look at the properties we have for rent in Pennsylvania today, and let us get you into a home that feels like you belong there.