Whats Everyone using for Lease agreement?

Question

Coming up with new leases for tenants on a recent purchase in Rhode Island.  I have one made out already, but just curious to what everyone else is using for rental agreements? I feel like there could be better options than what I have.  Recommendations highly appreciated! :)

Bettina F. · Answer

Great idea to use a college's lease as a template starting point.  I have also recommended that you see if you can get a copy of a lease from a large apartment complex in the area.  These complexes have legal teams that would have reviewed the lease.   But, there is no substitute for knowing the law.

Account Closed · Answer

I used the Nolo Press Landlord contracts and forms.  They're great, as they're simple and easy to understand.  They off other states, too, not sure if they have some you can use, but here's a link:

http://store.nolo.com/products/leases-and-rental-a...

Matt Romano · Answer

Thank you @Jason Boulay for the tips and suggestions.

Jason Boulay · Answer

I've used a custom lease.  The recommendations of taking college leases/large apartment complexes and mending the terms together may work to suit your needs.  There are templates available online, but you want to make sure they are specific to RI.  As mentioned, you may want to get in touch with a real estate attorney to see what it may cost to have one drafted.

I'm not an attorney, but I would recommend considering some of the following areas if you are going to write the lease yourself.

• Rent due date
• Late fee(s)
• Fee for a returned payment
• Fee for early termination of the lease agreement
• Required notice to vacate (30 days? 45 days? 60 days?)
• Allowing legal and attorneys fee to be charged to the tenant in the event they breach the lease (eviction, noncompliance, etc.).

Either way, you are going to want to read the RI Landlord Tenant Handbook (if you haven't already) to understand your rights and responsibilities as a landlord and the rights and responsibilities of your tenants.

Peter S. · Answer

I'm an attorney in Florida and I use the standard multifamily lease provided by the Florida Bar. Check your state bar association and see if they have a self help lease they provide.

Matt Romano · Answer

Thank you @Steve Nowak

Steve Nowak · Answer

First, be sure that you are familiar with your state's landlord/tenant laws.

You can search online for examples of leases in your state.  Often, colleges and universities that provide housing have copies of their lease templates on their websites.  I've found those to be a good starting point.

You might also want to check with some local attorneys about how much they charge to write up an agreement.

Also, local organizations of landlords and/or realtors provide leases for their members, although a membership fee is required.

Whats Everyone using for Lease agreement?

Most Popular Reply