Renters’ Choice: All About the Lease

Are your residents happy with the leasing process at your community? This month, MHN partnered with Kingsley Associates to find out what residents think about everything lease-related—from signing to renewal.

“Management explained the leasing contract thoroughly. I was able to move into my apartment earlier than expected, which was great!” —Kent, Wash.

“The leasing agent did an outstanding job at understanding what I was looking for and explaining the different floor plans and the contracts that come with those floor plans.” —Burke, Va.

“I did not decide to sign a contract on the spot because you are advertising one free month on websites, yet you are not honoring that advertisement.” —Tampa, Fla.

“I appreciated that the lease was short. At the last place I lived, the lease was about 24-pages long.” —Jersey City, N.J.

“Contract terms change last minute, language is vague, and, if I didn’t read the whole thing, I may have missed a few things they added each time.” —Beaverton, Ore.

“Consider changing the policy regarding breaking leases. Perhaps less of a penalty could be given when the lease is terminated closer to the end of the agreement.” —Aurora, Colo.

“Please remove the fee for paying rent with a credit card or with a check.” —Philadelphia

“We had a lot of trouble securing a parking spot and, while this is not part of the leasing process, it would be immensely helpful if there was a way to make this process more seamless.” —Jersey City, N.J.

“During the leasing process, the staff went above and beyond to make it a very positive experience. This was a huge factor within my decision making.” —Renton, Wash.

“I have been here for four years, and every year when I get a renewal notice the rent goes up. Yet people who just moved in get to pay a lower rate because the rates fluctuate daily. No loyalty to long-term tenants.” —Tempe, Ariz.

“No renewal incentives is a poor way to show loyalty to long-time renters.” —Las Vegas

“There is no benefit for renewal. All it means is another rate increase. They offer free carpet cleaning. Big deal.” —Atlanta

“The lease agreements need to be longer. The options are too short and are always followed by a rate increase, which makes it tougher to renew.” —Portland, Ore.

“I wish there was a renewal incentive program for current residents—even a discount toward one month of rent just to make us feel like we are valued as residents.” —Oklahoma City

“While I have entertained the notion of moving, I have not done so because my renewal rates have been very, very reasonable. I think that it’s great that you try to hang on to your longer-term tenants, as that is one of the main reasons I stay.” —Portland, Ore.