How to Break Your Lease at OKCREAL: A Step-by-Step Guide

At OKCREAL, we understand that life changes unexpectedly. Whether it’s a new job, financial constraints, or a personal situation, breaking your lease can be a stressful process. However, we aim to make this process as straightforward as possible while ensuring you meet all the requirements outlined in your rental agreement.

In this article, we’ll explore the steps you need to take to break your lease responsibly and what you should know about the legal and financial implications.

1. Review Your Lease Agreement

The first step to breaking your lease at OKCREAL is to carefully review your lease agreement. If you need an additional copy of your lease you can email leasing@okcreal.com or request a copy of it in the tenant portal by placing a tenant request. Your lease outlines the terms of your rental, including the duration of the lease, the notice period required to terminate the agreement.

Check with your agent but OKCREAL typically charges a two months worth of rent lease break fee.

This allows us time to get the unit ready and rented again with minimal impact on the property owner.

2. Understand the Penalties

Breaking your lease often comes with financial penalties. . These penalties can vary, but commonly include:

• Lease Break Fee: This could be a specific fee, typically one or two months’ rent.

• Remaining Rent Payments: You may be responsible for the rent until a new tenant is found.

• Forfeiture of Security Deposit: In some cases, you might lose part or all of your security deposit.

Knowing these penalties in advance will help you prepare financially.

3. Communicate with Your Property Manager

At OKCREAL, we pride ourselves on maintaining open lines of communication with our residents. Be upfront and honest about your situation, whether it’s financial hardship, job relocation, or another reason for breaking the lease.

4. Explore Alternatives

Before you commit to breaking your lease, consider alternative options that may be available at OKCREAL:

• Subleasing: Some lease agreements allow tenants to sublet the property to another tenant. This can be a great way to minimize penalties and avoid being responsible for the rent.

• Early Move-Out Agreements: In some cases, property managers may allow tenants to leave early if a new tenant is found to take over the lease prior to your departure.

Make sure to ask your property manager about these alternatives during your conversation.

5. Provide a Written Notice

Once you’ve made the decision to break your lease and discussed your options with the property manager, the next step is to provide written notice. Most lease agreements at OKCREAL will require a formal notice, typically 30 to 60 days in advance. Make sure this notice includes the following information:

• Your full name and address

• The date you plan to move out

• A brief explanation for breaking the lease (optional but recommended)

• Your signature and the date of the notice

Ensure you send this notice via certified mail or email to have proof of communication.

send this email to leasing@okcreal.com

or by snail mail to:

OKCREAL

6608 N Western Ave Suite 1358

Oklahoma City OK 73116

6. Prepare for the Move-Out Process

As your move-out date approaches, it’s important to prepare the property for inspection. OKCREAL requires tenants to return the rental property in the same condition as it was when they moved in, minus normal wear and tear. Be sure to:

• Clean the property thoroughly

• Repair any damage that exceeds normal wear and tear

• Remove all personal belongings

• Schedule a final walk-through with your property manager

This will increase your chances of receiving your full security deposit back, even if you’re breaking the lease.

7. Understand Your Legal Rights

Breaking a lease is a legal action, so it’s important to understand your rights as a tenant. In some cases, you may be able to break your lease without penalty due to specific circumstances such as:

• Military Service: Active-duty military members may have the right to break a lease under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA).

• Habitability Issues: If the property is uninhabitable due to serious maintenance issues that haven’t been addressed.

• Domestic Violence: Some states have laws allowing tenants to break a lease due to domestic violence, please contact your agent for specific details.

Consult with a legal expert to fully understand your rights based on your situation and location.

8. Final Thoughts

Breaking your lease at OKCREAL may seem overwhelming at first, but by following these steps, you can navigate the process with confidence. Always start by reviewing your lease, understanding the penalties, and communicating with your property manager. In many cases, we can help you find a solution that minimizes stress and financial burden.

If you have any questions or need assistance, OKCREAL is here to support you through the process. Reach out to your agent for guidance and we’ll help you take the right steps forward.

Breaking a lease isn’t easy, but with the right preparation and communication, you can handle it responsibly and smoothly.