How to Write a Home Lease Agreement

Creating a written lease agreement is very important in the rental process.

A home lease agreement is an agreement between a landlord and tenants. The agreement should specify the terms both parties agree to. Leases are fairly standard but should always include clauses for monthly rent due, date rent is due, duration of lease, responsibilities of both the tenant and the landlord and fees for any clause that is not followed.

Instructions

1. Visit Biggerpockets.com and review their lease agreements.(See Resources 1). Download the rental lease agreement. You can download a .doc or .pdf file. Review the basic clauses on the agreement.

2. Visit MrLandlord.com and select your state to view the laws specific to your state. (See Resource 2) Read your state laws carefully and determine if there are areas on the lease form that need to be added, deleted or adjusted.

3. Enter your information, your renter's information and all other lease information such as address where the rent should be sent, rental amount, due date, late fees, length of lease and any other areas that need input.

4. Have the renter initial each page and sign two copies of the lease. Each adult listed on the lease should sign the last page of the lease. The landlord will need to initial each page and sign the last page of the lease.

5. A signed original copy of the lease should be given to both the landlord and the renter. Both parties should keep a copy in their files. If the landlord ever needs to enforce the lease legally, he will need the lease.

Tips & Warnings

• A rental lease is considered a legal agreement. If you have any question regarding your lease, you should consult a local attorney.

References

• Nolo: FAQ Leases
• Rentals: Lease Agreements

Resources

• Mr Landlord: State Landlord Laws
• Bigger Pockets: Real Estate Forms