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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

UPDATED & SPACIOUS HOME ON CUL-DE-SAC IN COVETED AREA OF MCLEAN.

WOODED LOT. PRIVATE SETTING. NEARLY 3,000 SF. RENOVATED KITCHEN, SUNROOM ADDITION, GRANITE, HW FLOORS, SS APPLIANCES, 2 FPs, WO, DECK (288 SF), PATIO (480 SF) & BEAUTIFUL BACKYARD. NEAR TYSONS, 495, 66, DULLES TOLL RD, GW PKWY, DULLES & REAGAN APs, & SILVER LINE METRO. LANGLEY HS PYRAMID, BEST IN FX COUNTY. MIUNUTES TO ES, MS & HS. MAX 2 INCOMES TO QUALIFY. NEED AGENT TO ASSIST WITH PREVIEWING AND ON LINE APPLICATION. [Langley Manor - $4,300]

Fantastic end unit rowhouse in popular Lynhaven neighborhood featuring 2 bedrooms and 2 full baths.

Enter the main level through a welcoming front porch offering a spacious open floor with large living room, dining area and updated kitchen opening to a private back deck for 3 season dining. Upper level features 2 ample sized bedrooms and updated full hall bath. The lower level is bright and spacious for use as a 3rd bedroom for overnight guests with the 2nd full bath or movie nights with your neighbors. Spring is in the air so be sure to enjoy the shaded corner lot with 3 coveted off street parking spaces and extra storage in the large shed. Convenient location just a short stroll to Del Ray shops and cafes and a few blocks from Potomac Yards shopping center and new metro. Easy access to DC, Old Town and airpot. [Lynhaven - $3,400]

Welcome to a rarely available detached home in Kerrybrooke! This spacious home has been freshly painted and refreshed! It is ideally located just a short walk away from sought after schools in Fairfax County, including Clermont Elementary and Mark Twain Middle School.

Enjoy the convenience of living close to both schools and county parks. The prime location of this home offers easy access to the Beltway and Telegraph Rd, making commuting a breeze. The upper level features three generous-sized bedrooms, including a primary bedroom with an en suite bathroom. The open kitchen, updated in 2020, is perfect for cooking and entertaining. With windows in practically every room, natural light floods the living spaces. The dining room provides outdoor access to a lovely deck, perfect for enjoying the fresh air. The basement boasts a spacious recreation room, an additional bedroom with built-ins, and a full bathroom, offering versatility and ample space for various needs. Conveniently located just 2.5 miles to the Huntington Metro, less than 10 miles to Fort Belvoir and the Pentagon, and 15 miles to Andrews Air Force Base and Reagan National Airport, this home is perfect for those who need easy access to transportation hubs. Additionally, it's just 10 minutes to Old Town Alexandria and National Harbor. The upper level offers almost 1300 sq. ft. of living space, while the lower level provides more than 500 sq. ft. of additional space. * Please note: owner prefers a long-term lease beginning in May* [Kerrybrooke - $3,790]

Excellent prime location in Tysons Corner this brand new modern luxury living townhome at Tysons Ridge boasts 3BR, 3.

5BA and 2-car garage, Custom selections in The main level features hardwood floors, high ceilings, recess lightings throughout. With an open floor plan, you will find a stunning chef's kitchen with upgraded cabinetry & hardware, upscale counters with complimentary designer backsplash, Samsung stainless steel appliances & elegant center island & patio door leading to the balcony.. Open dining area leads to spacious living room with walls of windows. Upper level features large primary bedroom with bump out for extra living & dual walk-in closets. Primary spa-like ensuite full bathroom featuring luxury upgraded tiled floors & gorgeous tiled floor to ceiling frameless shower. Second bedroom with second full bathroom with bathtub and subway tiled to ceiling. There is the laundry area in the hallway with full size stacked washer & dryer. Upper Two level features third nicely sized bedroom with carpet and one additional upgraded full bathroom with shower, Hardwood flooring loft/family room & sliding glass doors leading to a huge private rooftop terrace for additional outdoor living.. Ideally located near the vibrancy of Tysons, VA, the new neighborhood at Tysons Ridge is just moments to all your favorite retail and dining destinations by Tysons Corner Center, Tysons Galleria, Capital One Center & Mosaic District, Short ride to Wolftrap National Park for the Performing Arts and other local parks. Available immediately! No pets and smoking are allowed. [Tysons Ridge - $4,800]

Location, tranquility, and private driveway parking for 2 cars.

Located in a quiet section of the sought-after SE quadrant of historic Old Town, this end-unit townhome promotes a sense of peace and wellbeing. An outdoor brick patio off the entry level is surrounded by greenery and invites alfresco dining and relaxation. Glass doors off the living room open to a Juliet balcony and welcome in warm sunlight, while two gas fireplaces offer warmth and ambiance during the colder months. Finally, enjoy sipping a morning cup of coffee on the Trex plank deck found just off the kitchen and overlooking the lower patio. Tall ceilings throughout, hardwood floors, wainscoting and chair rail millwork, columns, and crown molding continue the commanding captivation this home affords. Upon entering, make your way down the hall, passing an office or bedroom complete with closet, and into the light filled family room. Ascend the stairs to the open living room, dining room, kitchen level that is an ideal flow for entertaining. For the utmost respite, make your way to the upper bedroom levels. On the first level, you’ll find the primary suite and a second bedroom, both with two closets and ensuite bathrooms. The upper level can be formatted to fit your lifestyle – an additional bedroom, playroom, exercise room, a second office – the possibilities are endless! Two storage sheds located on the patio allow for ample storage. . Tenants pay all utilities - water, electricity and gas. Please complete online application via RentSpree. Text or call listing agent for questions. [Pommander - $6,400]

Rare opportunity! Renovated stately colonial strategically located inside the beltway and minutes to DC! Sought-after Langley High School district.

Enjoy a quiet, relaxing neighborhood with access to sidewalks and lush parkland. Exquisite home features a newly renovated kitchen and bathrooms, new hardwood floors on the main and upper levels, and stunning Pella windows. Enjoy the chef's kitchen with quartz countertops, wine refrigerator, double-oven range, Sub-Zero refrigerator, and designer touches. Overlook the great outdoors from the open kitchen, eat-in area, and family room. Stately oversized windows appoint the formal dining room and spacious living room. Main level office with french doors provides a convenient and private workspace. Main level laundry room offers a utility sink, quartz counter, oversized washer and dryer, and extra storage. On the second floor, the primary bedroom suite features expansive windows, a walk-in closet, and newly renovated bathroom with oversized luxury tile, a double sink vanity, and rain and wall shower. The upper level also features three secondary bedrooms and a renovated hall bathroom. The lower level includes two large rec rooms, a second office/yoga/craft room, a full bathroom, and ample storage space. Relax in the welcoming backyard with evergreens and fruit trees. Stunning home and spectacular location! Pets considered on a case by case basis [Langley Oaks - $7,300]

Terrific large rambler - Over 2,900 sq.

ft., 1,458 per floor!! 2 Fireplaces!! Main floor - 3/4 bedrooms - one a terrific home office. 2 full renovated full baths- main, 1 full bath- LL. Gorgeous NEW kitchen with lovely cabinets, stainless appliances, lots of storage, generous Quartz counters for cooking or entertaining! Adjoining dining space with built-in bench and cabinets! Living Room has wood burning fireplace. Very bright home in all weather. Fantastic, HUGE, lower level family room w/FP, windows & rear exit**LL den can be used as guest room (currently used as storage). Full bath on lower level. Excellent location -so near the George Washington Parkway, tons of shopping and good dining on Richmond Highway, 15 minutes to the Pentagon & Regan National Airport, 10 minutes to Fort Belvoir, 10 minute to the fun in Old Town Alexandria. Excellent schools both public and private near by. Apply via Rent Spree [Sherwood Hall - $3,990]

"Welcome to your new luxurious retreat nestled in the heart of the city! This stunning condo offers the perfect blend of modern elegance and comfort, providing a sanctuary you'll be delighted to call home.

As you step into this meticulously designed space, you'll be greeted by a spacious layout that seamlessly flows from one room to the next. The living area is bathed in natural light, creating an inviting ambiance for both relaxation and entertaining. With some furnishing and electronic entertainment already in place. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring sleek countertops, top-of-the-line appliances, and ample storage space for all your culinary needs. Whether you're hosting intimate gatherings or preparing meals for your family, this kitchen is sure to inspire your inner chef. Retreat to the master suite, where serenity awaits. Boasting a generous layout, a luxurious bathroom, and a walk-in closet, this private oasis offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Two additional bedrooms provide plenty of space, along with a top floor washer/dryer. Balcony to enjoy your morning coffee or unwind with a glass of wine in the evening. With a one-car garage providing secure parking and additional storage space, convenience is at your fingertips. Located in a sought-after neighborhood, this condo offers easy access to shopping, dining, entertainment, and easy access to I-66 or Fairfax County Pkwy and more. Don't miss your chance to experience luxury living at its best. Schedule a showing today to live in this exquisite condo!" [Residences At Fair Chase - $3,450]

3 Bedroom, 2.

5 Bath Townhouse -End Unit; w/ 1 RESERVED PRKG SPACE - AVAILABLE EARLY JULY, 2024 -WALK TO METRO, 4 Blocks to Ballston Metro and Restaurants & Shops; *Comes with 1 Reserved Parking Space. Plenty of zoned parking nearby. *Main level has Living Room w/ Hardwood Floors, and Wood Burning Fireplace. and French Doors which open to a private Walled Patio. Living Rm opens to Dining Room with Hardwood Floors. Next there's an Updated Kitchen with Granite Counter-Tops, Stainless Appliances, and Wood Cabinets. There's also a Powder Room and Washer and Dryer on the main level. *Mid Level has 2 Bedrooms and a Jack & Jill full size Bathroom. Primary Bedroom on this level has a Wood-Burning Fireplace, and French Doors to a Juliet railing, *Top Level has the 3rd Bedroom and a full Bathroom. *DOGS considered w/ additional Pet Dep. Sorry, NO CATS!! *Property comes with 1 Private Parking Space and ample zoned street parking. Walk to Ballston restaurants and clubs, stores and Metro. *Available July 2024. Property is privately managed by a responsive owner. To Qualify: Annual Income ≥ 40 times monthly rent. by 2 incomes max. Good credit, Good Housing history. Carpeting will be deep-cleaned after tenant with dogs vacates! *VIDEO TOUR AVAILABLE. CALL LISTING AGENT FOR VIDEO TOUR. This property is managed by the Owner. [Ballston Commons - $4,500]

Home sweet home this lovely 2 bedroom 2 bathroom condo has been completely renovated and ready for you to make it home.

24 hour concierge available. Conveniently located right off of 395 with easy access to all sites in the metropolitan area. Connivence on your floor with the unit right next to the laundry room. Wonderful views of Alexandria from your corner lot balcony. Community garden and running trials in front of the building. Best Part all utilities are included in the rent. Come take a tour of your new home. [Pavilion On the Park - $2,200]