If you're living in a student apartment near Florida A&M University, you might already be hearing discussions about lease renewals, even though move-in day feels like it was just yesterday! In Tallahassee, apartment communities close to FAMU often begin their renewal processes as early as early September. Given the timing so close to the start of the school year, it's completely normal to feel a bit stressed or unsure about how to proceed with your lease renewal.
But don't worry — we've got you covered. This guide will help you navigate the renewal process, break down what renewing a lease really means, and weigh the pros and cons so you can make the best decision for you.
What Is a Lease Renewal?
A lease renewal is the option to extend your current lease for another year. Most student apartment leases in Tallahassee follow a 12-month cycle, running from August to July. When the time comes, your apartment community will likely offer you the chance to renew before opening-up your apartment to new residents. This is your opportunity to lock in your space for another year.
Why Do Renewals Happen So Early in Tallahassee Student Housing?
It might seem a bit rushed to think about renewing just weeks after moving in, but it's the norm for student housing communities. These properties cater to students, and their leasing cycles are structured around the academic calendar. This early renewal period helps apartment managers secure renters for the upcoming school year well in advance, and it gives you, the resident, the first chance to stay in your current space.
Pros and Cons of Renewing Your Lease
Pros
- Stay Put: The biggest perk? You don't have to move! Moving can be stressful and expensive, especially if you're dealing with heavy furniture, textbooks, and everything else you've accumulated over the year. Renewing means avoiding the hassle of finding a new place, moving between apartments, and living out of boxes.
- Save Time: Hunting for a new apartment takes time. Renewing allows you to bypass the search process altogether.
- No Gap Between Leases: In some cases, moving into a new apartment might require waiting a few days or even weeks before your lease begins while apartments get ready for new residents move-ins. By renewing, you avoid any awkward downtime where you'd have to find temporary housing.
- Maintain Relationships: If you've bonded with your roommates or neighbors, staying put keeps your social circle intact.
- Familiarity: You know the quirks of your current place (maybe that bathroom sink always drips, but at least you know it's manageable!). No need to adjust to a new space or a new set of house rules.
Cons
- Increase: Often, apartment communities will increase rent during the renewal period. Be sure to check if there's a hike in your rent before signing on for another year.
- Miss Out on New Deals: Sometimes, newer apartment communities or those opening the next leasing season offer promotions to attract new renters. If you renew without exploring other options, you might miss out on these apartment deals.
- Limited Flexibility: If you're uncertain about your plans (graduating, studying abroad, etc.), locking into another 12-month lease might feel like a big commitment. Consider looking for an apartment that offers short-term leases if you'll be graduating early.
Additional Considerations
- Roommate Situations: If you plan on renewing but have roommates, check if they're renewing as well. If they're not, you may have new roommates placed with you, or you might have the option to choose new ones. You can also reach out to students and encourage them to sign into the unit you are renewing in!
- Apartment Upgrades: Sometimes, management will upgrade apartments between lease periods, whether it's new appliances or fresh paint. If you renew, ask about any potential upgrades to your unit.
- Lease Terms: Double-check if your renewal lease has any changes to the original agreement, such as new rules, policies, or responsibilities.
Renewal FAQ's, answered!
Q: When do lease renewals start near Florida A&M University?
A: Lease renewals in Tallahassee, especially at student apartments near FAMU, often start as early as early September, just a few weeks after move-ins. Each apartment community has its own renewal timeline, so check with your leasing office for specific dates.
Q: Do I have to move out if I renew my lease?
A: No, one of the main perks of renewing your Tallahassee apartment lease is that you won't have to move out. You can stay in your current apartment without the hassle of relocating your belongings.
Q: Will my rent increase if I renew?
A: It's common for rent to increase upon renewal. Make sure to review the renewal offer carefully to see if there's a rent hike and decide if the increase is manageable for your budget.
Q: What happens if I don't renew my lease by the deadline?
A: If you miss the renewal deadline, your apartment and bedroom may be offered to new prospective residents. If you're considering other housing options but want to keep renewing as a backup, communicate with your leasing office to see if they offer any flexibility.
Q: Can I switch apartments within the same community if I renew?
A: In some cases, yes. If you like your apartment community but want a different floor plan or location, ask if you can transfer to another unit while renewing your lease. This is called a renewal transfer, and normally you would make the transfer between the end of your current lease and the date that new residents are moving in.
Q: What should I do if my roommates aren't renewing?
A: If your roommates aren't renewing but you plan to stay, check with management on how they'll fill the other rooms. They may pair you with new roommates, or you might be able to find your own replacements.
Q: What should I do after I renew my lease?
A: If there's one piece of advice you take from this article, it's to get everything in writing! Make sure to keep a copy of your signed lease renewal and all communications with the leasing team. This includes any discussions about changes to your floorplan or bedroom arrangements, as well as any special renewal offers you might receive. Documenting these details will be invaluable later, especially as you approach your renewal date, ensuring you have all necessary information at hand.Shape
Making a decision about your lease renewal in your Tallahassee off-campus apartment is a big deal, but with the right information, it doesn't have to be stressful. Be sure to weigh your options, ask the right questions, and think about what will make the next year the best for you!