Can You Lease an Apartment for 3 Months?

Securing an apartment for a short duration, such as three months, presents a unique challenge in the rental market. While traditional annual leases are the norm, temporary housing solutions are often available. This article explores the practicalities of finding and securing short-term living arrangements.

Understanding Short-Term Rental Availability

Landlords generally prefer long-term lease agreements, typically 12 months, due to the stability they offer. Longer leases ensure a consistent income stream and reduce expenses associated with frequent tenant turnover, such as advertising, screening, and cleaning costs. This preference makes direct 3-month leases from conventional landlords less common.

Offering short-term rentals increases a landlord’s management responsibilities, requiring more frequent communication, cleaning, and maintenance between stays. Property damage potential is higher with frequent occupants, and income can fluctuate due to seasonal demand. However, short-term rentals can command higher nightly rates, potentially generating more revenue than traditional long-term leases, especially in high-demand areas or during peak seasons. Properties like vacation homes or those in urban centers are well-suited for shorter stays due to their location or transient renter demographics.

Exploring Short-Term Housing Options

Several alternative housing options exist for those seeking a 3-month apartment beyond traditional leases. Extended-stay hotels cater to longer visits, offering amenities like in-room kitchens, laundry facilities, and discounted rates for extended periods. They provide a convenient environment without a traditional lease commitment, suitable for temporary relocation or extended travel.

Corporate housing provides fully furnished units for business travelers, relocating employees, or individuals needing temporary accommodation. These units often include utilities and services, offering a convenient, ready-to-move-in solution. While typically arranged by companies, individuals can sometimes access them through specialized providers.

Subletting involves renting a property from an existing tenant rather than directly from the landlord. This can be an effective way to find a short-term arrangement, as the original tenant seeks to cover their rent. Platforms connect individuals seeking sublets, but obtaining landlord approval is important.

Vacation rental platforms, such as Airbnb and VRBO, offer a wide range of properties, from apartments to houses. Many hosts provide discounts for extended bookings, making them a viable option for a 3-month stay. These platforms typically include detailed property descriptions and house rules.

Month-to-month leases offer maximum flexibility, allowing tenants to rent on a 30-day basis. While not always available upfront, some landlords may offer these after an initial longer lease term, or from the start if they value the flexibility to adjust terms or reclaim the property. This flexibility often comes with a higher monthly rent compared to a standard annual lease.

Navigating Short-Term Lease Agreements

Once a suitable short-term housing option is identified, understanding the agreement’s specific terms is important. Short-term rentals frequently come with higher monthly rent compared to annual leases, reflecting increased turnover costs and administrative burden. This premium can range from 10% to 40% more than an unfurnished, long-term rental, as landlords account for potential vacancy periods and additional management.

Security deposits are a standard component of rental agreements, guaranteeing against damages. For short-term rentals, these deposits can range from $250 to $500 for typical properties, and up to $1,000 to $2,000 for larger or luxury units. Some hosts may charge a deposit equal to 10% to 20% of the total booking price. Deposits are typically refunded after property inspection, usually within 14 to 45 days, if no damages beyond normal wear and tear are found.

Many short-term rentals, especially extended-stay hotels and corporate housing, include utilities such as electricity, water, and internet in the rental rate. Furnished units are also common, providing essential furniture and appliances, which offers convenience but adds to the higher rental cost. Reviewing the agreement will clarify what is included and whether additional fees apply for services like cleaning or pet accommodation.

The lease agreement or rental contract should detail the exact rental period, occupancy limits, and house rules regarding noise, pets, or parking. It should also outline move-in and move-out procedures, and any early termination clauses. The application process for short-term rentals typically involves providing personal identification, contact information, and sometimes proof of ownership. A review of credit history or background checks may also be part of the application.