Should You Rent or Lease Your Home, Apartment, or Commercial Unit?

Aaronrobertson

For Rent or for Lease, What’s the difference?

Is that unit or property for rent or for lease? This question comes up often in Real Estate. Often times these terms are misused by many, so let’s get down to the nuts and bolts and get a clear picture of what the difference is between these two terms.

Renting:

Renting has to do with the terms of the agreement between the two parties or tenant and landlord. When the term for rent is used typically means that the home, apartment or commercial unit is available on a short-term basis and the contract will auto-renew after each term. A Month to Month agreement would be a good example of this; it can be canceled by the landlord or renter with proper written notice in advance. Also, the terms of the agreement may be changed by the landlord with written notice. If the renter is unhappy with the new terms they usually choose to move out and rent elsewhere.
A bright green question mark with a bold black outline, depicted in a smooth and stylized font.
Leasing:

Leasing is a long-term that is present. Most often it will be set for 6 months or 1 year but could be set longer if both parties agree. In this situation, a renter is often called a lessee and the landlord may be called Lessor. The provisions of a Lease may not be changed during the term without the consent of all parties involved. The recognized protection or benefit for the renter or lessee is a set rent for the lease term. Many renters look for a lease because it gives them peace of mind while they are on a lease that the rent may not be changed. Landlords or Lessor also enjoys the benefits of the lease as well because they know they have a tenant for the length of the lease. Leases can offer both party’s comfort knowing that the terms are set until a specific date.

Hope you now have a better picture of the definitions between for rent and for lease. Thank you for taking the time to check out our blog and as always, hope you are having fun in Real Estate.

Share this post with a friend!

 
 

Disclaimer: The content on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or advice. Consult with a qualified professional for specific advice.

image of a landlord and tenant discussing a lease agreement and rent increase at a table
By Aaron Robertson March 28, 2025
Maximize your rental income while keeping great tenants—smart rent increases make all the difference!
 A relieved property owner confidently smiling, while holding a legal document representing SB 448
By Aaron Robertson March 21, 2025
Senate Bill 448 introduces a legal framework to help California property owners quickly remove illegal squatters while maintaining protections for legitimate renters.
March 2025 Newsletter about Redding Rental Update & Authority Property’s 10 Years Anniversary
By Aaron Robertson March 18, 2025
March Newsletter: Exciting Updates & Insights for Property Owners
Show More
Share by: