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Most rental agreements in the Commonwealth of Virginia have a section regarding the renter breaking the lease agreement. While there is also likely a section or several sections regarding when the leasing agent can evict the renter, the section on breaking the lease should be of particular interest to those who might be in a position to have to break the lease some day. Renters should understand these contract terms so they can make an informed decision. Additionally the renter should consider all costs associated with breaking the lease. This includes both financial costs as well as emotional costs.

Nesbitt Inspirational — I can't go back to yesterday - because I was a different person then. -Lewis Carroll

Understand the Contract Terms

Renters should review their rental agreement carefully before signing the lease. Your lease is a legally binding contract which should be given proper consideration before entering into the agreement. This is important because understanding these terms will be essential if the need to break the lease becomes a reality. Rental agreements typically do allow the renter to break the lease but not without some form of penalty. This penalty usually comes in the form of requiring the renter to give a specified amount of notice before the contract is up and also requires the renter to pay a sum of money to break the rental agreement. A notice of 30 days and a lease break amount equal to one month’s rent are common penalties associated with breaking a lease, however, individual leasing agents may impose penalties which are either harsher or less severe.

Consider the Costs of Breaking the Lease

As previously mentioned there is typically a fee associated with breaking a lease. This fee is often set equal to one month’s rent. While paying this fee may seem excessive there are some instances in which it is an economically good decision to break the contract even though there is a financial penalty imposed. Consider the example of a homeowner who is the process or relocating due to a job change. The homeowner may opt to rent an apartment in the new state while the house is put up for sale in the previous state. If the renter enters into a 12 month contract under the supposition that it will take this long to sell the old house and purchase a new house, he may be surprised if his other house sells quickly and he finds a home in his new state rather quickly. This may all occur within a matter of 2-3 months. The renter has the option to stay in the apartment until the rental agreement nears expiration and then start looking for a home. However, this option runs the risk that the home he previously found will not likely be available. The renters other option is to place a bid on the new house and plan on breaking the lease if he is able to close on the new house. In this case, the renter would be saddled with both a rent and a mortgage for 9-10 months. This will likely be significantly more expensive than the price the renter would pay to break the lease.

Breaking the Lease is Not Always a Financial Decision

The decision to break a lease is not always completely a financial decision. There are sometimes emotional components which factor into the equation. For example a renter may have only 1-2 months remaining on his rental agreement when he is offered a dream job which will require him to relocate immediately. Although breaking the lease that late in the agreement is usually not financially wise, the renter may make this decision to avoid missing out on a dream job.

Rentals in Focus

Available: May 1st.

Located on the 12th floor, this move-in-ready condo is perfect for anyone looking for breathtaking scenic views and abundant natural light streaming in through its floor-to-ceiling windows. The primary suite offers two walk-in closets with shelving and an en-suite bath. A second bedroom also offers picturesque park views and a closet. For convenience, the second full bath is located in the hallway for guests. This unit includes an in-unit washer and dryer. Facing north, the condo overlooks the tranquil Holmes Run Stream and Veterans Park. Additionally, one (1) assigned garage parking space is included. All utilities are covered, except for Internet and Cable TV. [Greenhouse - $2,500]

Welcome to 8903 Waites Way! This stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom interior townhome is sure to impress.

Step inside and be greeted by the gleaming hardwood floors, high ceilings, and well-appointed main living areas. The kitchen is a chef's delight with granite countertops, ample wood cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and convenient access to the second-story deck. Retreat to the primary bedroom located on the second floor, boasting vaulted ceilings, abundant storage space, and large windows flooding the room with natural light. The two additional bedrooms offer generous proportions and scenic views of the beautiful tennis court. The basement is a versatile space with tall ceilings, a full bathroom, and ample room to create an additional bedroom or flex space to suit your needs. Enjoy direct access to the backyard with a convenient ground-level walkout. Pets are allowed on a case-by-case basis, with a $300 non-refundable pet fee applicable. Plus, you'll have the convenience of two parking spaces. Amenities include a play ground and tennis courts. [Washington Square - $2,500]

GORGEOUS, METICULOUSLY MAINTAINED 1 BR, 1 BA Condo in the sought-after Woodbury Heights! Walk in and be greeted by beautiful hardwood floors and bright natural light flowing in from the balcony* Spacious living room with light gray walls is perfect for private relaxation or entertaining guests* Kitchen features new stainless steel kitchen appliances, granite countertops, and ample cabinetry* Retreat to the versatile priavte bedroom, filled with abundant natural light and a spacious closet* The updated bathroom offers a sleek, modern feel, boasting comfort and convenience* Step outside to the balcony to overlook Arlington and the rest of Woodbury Heights, perfect to enjoy morning coffee or chat with friends* FANTASTIC LOCATION* One block away from the Orange/Silver Line, a short distance to numerous grocery stores/restaurants, and easy access to Washington DC.

* [Woodbury Heights - $2,350]

Well maintained 2 bedrooms 1 bathroom condo in the heart of scenic and central area of Arlington.

Shirlington dog park, Village at Shirlington with many restaurants, bars, shopping, and a movie theater, Jennie Dean Park, Barcroft Community Center, all within walking distance. Direct access to Four Mile Run trail and W&OD trail. Two pools maintained by the Condo association and three tennis courts. Easy Car and public transit access to D.C. Rent includes all utilities except electricity and the average electric bill has been less than $80 for the owners which makes it very cost friendly. Quite private patio with direct access to communal green space and a garden bed for the renter's use on the patio. The house features modern stainless steel appliances, recently refaced cabinets, wood grain vinyl flooring, recessed lighting, and a walk-in pantry in Kitchen, TV wall-mount already installed in the living room for tenant's convenience. Schedule a tour today. [The Arlington - $2,500]

BASEMENT APARTMENT Near 495, DC, Pentagon, Fort Belvoir it is a basement apartment with its own separate entrance with its own kitchen and washer dryer.

Shows great. [Cedar Crest - $3,500]

Welcome to 2510-C S Walter Reed Drive! This stunning end row townhome style 3-level condo has 3 beds 2.

5 baths with over 1800 sq feet. The main living space features beautiful hardwood floors, custom built-ins, a fire place, and direct access to the back yard. The open kitchen offers wood cabinets, granite counters and stainless steel appliances. On the second level you have three bedrooms with tons of storage and custom shutters on all of the windows. As you make your way to the lower level you have fully tiled floors, multiple built-ins for storage and much more. Conveniently located near shops, fine dining, pubic transit and so much more! No pets allowed. [Windgate I - $3,450]

Available immediately for 12 or 24 month lease.

Bright and light filled home on quiet tree-lined street. Fully updated one-level living with three bedrooms and one bath. Home has a spacious, open floor plan. Fully remodeled kitchen with granite center island counter, grey cabinets and stainless steel appliances. Fully updated bathroom. New vinyl flooring throughout entire home (photos show prior flooring). Bedrooms have ample closet space. Large room off the carport for office, fitness room, play room or den. Washer/Dryer. Carport. Large, fenced, flat back yard with storage shed and a patio for enjoying the outdoors. Lawn care and leaf raking included in rent. Close to shopping and restaurants. Easy access to routes 50 and 495. Home is near the Mosaic District and Dunn Loring metro. Pets on a case-by-case basis. **Photos show prior flooring*** New vinyl flooring has been installed in the home and is different from the flooring in the photos. [Woodley - $2,900]

Brand NEW Basement For Rent! this cozy basement features one bedroom , one bathroom and modern kitchen ,Fully furnished .

Utilities included and WIFI ,one parking spot available on the private driveway, Private entrance access from walkway on the side of the house to the back. located near Oaks Mall. APPROXIMATELY 1200 SQ FT IN BASEMENT [Waples Mill - $1,950]

Available from June 1 or late May.

Stunning 5 story townhome with elevator in the center of McLean! Total 4 bedrooms 4.5 bathrooms, 4 living/ family rooms, plenty of walk-in closets! So much space! The house features 2 bedrooms 2 bathroom and a laundry room on the upper 1 level, 1 bedroom 1 bathroom and a loft on the upper 2 level, and another 1 bedroom 1.5 bathroom on the lower level. Main level features a gourmet Kitchen includes an island with gas cooktop (with downdraft vent), granite countertops, pantry, breakfast room, a butler’s pantry with beverage fridge. Formal dining room and large family room with a gas fireplace are also on the main level. Primary bedroom has a sitting area and an ensuite bathroom, walk-in closet and a spacious bathroom. 3rd bedroom is on the upper 2 level with a loft area and 3 large walk-in closets. Lower1 level which is the ground floor features a family room, a power room for guests, access to the 2-car garage and walkout to the patio! Patio furniture stays at the property for tenant to enjoy outdoor dining and living. Further down, on lower2 level, another recreation room and a 4th room to be used as guest bedroom, with another full bath! Fabulous location, walk to restaurants, shops, park, library and schools ! Minutes to Tysons Corner and DC. Quick access to I-495 to Maryland or Dulles International Airport! Pet case by case, pet rent $100/month, pet deposit $500. Please ask listing agent for link for online application. Thank you! [McLean Crest - $5,380]

This Lovely 3 bedroom, 3 full and 1 half bath town home offers a bright and open floor plan with lots of windows and is perfect for entertaining.

The living room and dining room flow seamlessly into one another, leading to the eat-in kitchen, which has tons of cabinet space, wood floors, an adjacent breakfast area, huge eat-in kitchen with island and a door leading out to the deck. The upper level of the home has a sizeable master bedroom with attached private bath, including dual sink vanity, tub, and a separate glass enclosed shower.This home is conveniently located within a few miles of Meadowood, Laurel Hill, and Fountainhead Regional Park, providing various options for hiking, jogging, or cycling. Additionally, this home is conveniently located within a few miles of VA Rail Express (Lorton VRE), Springfield Metro and Shopping Mall, Ft. Belvoir, Pentagon, Quantico. Students attend Laurel Hill Elementary, and the South County Middle and High Schools Property is occupied by tenants. No cats, small dog only case by case.Available for lease on 06/10/24. [Laurel Crest - $3,400]