How do you find a subletter? And how do you find one FAST?
Do it the easy way, using this guide.
You have to move, and you have to move fast.
The problem?
You’re only halfway through a 12-month lease on your current apartment.
Now you need a subletter ASAP. That kind of pressure can be a little overwhelming.
Try not to stress yourself out. We’re here to help.
These tips for how to find a last-minute subletter to take over your apartment lease are sure to guide you in the right direction.
1. Check with Your Friends
Your inner circle may be the best option for finding a subletter fast.
Maybe you just so happen to have a friend that’s between places. Or you know someone desperate for a change of scenery. Your apartment could be exactly what they’re looking for.
And what could be better than a subletter you already trust?
If you can’t think of anyone you know personally, one of your roommates may have a friend that needs a place to rent.
It’s only common courtesy to suggest the idea to anyone you’re living with, since they may be opposed to living with a stranger. They’re just as likely as you to want a subletter who will take care of the apartment.
A few text messages may be all it takes to find what you need.
2. Talk to Your Property Manager
No matter how you decide to find a subletter, you should let your property manager know about it.
They do own the place, after all.
On top of explaining subletter guidelines in your lease, your property manager might be the perfect source to connect you with one.
It’s a simple fact: Rentals are notoriously difficult to get ahold of.
No matter where you look, there’s no shortage of renters desperately searching for somewhere to live.
There’s a chance that your apartment is in high demand, and your property manager may have a list of prospective renters just waiting to take your place. These renters would already be approved to rent and perfect candidates to take over your lease.
Plus, you can rest assured you have your property manager’s blessing.
3. Get the Word Out on Social Media
Expand your search from your inner circle to your outer circle.
The reach of social media gives you a ton of potential for finding a subletter through one simple post.
It could be as fast as a single share to get it in front of the right set of eyes.
There’s bound to be at least one person on your friend list that knows someone on their friend list that is looking for a place to rent. And even if they don’t, they may still share it to help you out.
Spread the word as much as you can.
Don’t underestimate the power of a mid-afternoon scrolling break to bring you the perfect subletter.
4. Appeal to Short-Term Renters
More people than you think are searching for an apartment to rent for a short time.
Usually, all they can find are apartments that want them to sign a lease for an entire year, which isn’t realistic.
That’s where you come in.
Chances are, there is someone right around the corner who would be happy to take over your lease if it means they don’t have to commit long term.
Ask the HR department where you work to pass your information on to incoming interns. Advertise your sublease to attract the eyes of transfer students by making it clear that the rental is short-term.
They get a place to live while they need it and you get a responsible subletter to take over for you.
It’s a win-win.
5. Consider Throwing in Perks
Boost the appeal of your apartment by offering things subletters may not be able to find elsewhere.
Discounting the rent by $100 or $200 is a great way to entice someone to take over your lease. You get off the hook for paying the whole amount of rent and they get a break for taking it off your hands.
Offer to continue paying for the utilities. That’s difficult for anyone to refuse.
You could also leave your apartment partly furnished for those short-term renters that don’t want to move a ton of stuff into a place they won’t be staying in for long.
Make sure you highlight what the apartment offers, as well.
What free amenities does the complex have for renters? Will they get a parking spot while they’re renting? How close is it to the necessities?
Do everything in your power to make your apartment a can’t-miss opportunity.
A Few Extra Tips:
1. Cover Your Bases
Include a private security deposit in your sublease agreement.
Feel free to negotiate the price with your subletter. Just make sure it’s enough to keep them from leaving behind any major damage that you’ll inevitably be responsible for.
2. Record the Condition of Your Apartment
Draw up and run through a damage inspection form with your subletter at the time they move in.
This will give you a good idea of the state you’re leaving the apartment in so you have something to compare it to at the end of the lease.
3. Get It in Writing
Ask any roommates you have to sign a written consent form stating that they’re okay with someone else taking over your lease.
It’s not entirely necessary, but it’s good to cover all your bases.
In Summary
Now you’re all set to make that big move.
There’s a long list of people out there looking for the exact situation you’re offering. You are their saving grace, just like they can be yours.
All you have to do is get in touch.
Using one of these ways to find a last-minute subletter, you’re sure to locate someone to take over your apartment lease without the added stress.
[Client bio]
Ryan Sundling is a Group Marketing Manager at Cardinal Group Management. He has over 10 years of experience in the student housing industry and works with Hawthorne SLC on a daily basis to help them with their marketing efforts.