A lease provides the right to occupy a home without an ownership interest.
Application and move-in
Landlords may review income, rental history, credit, and other lawful criteria. Ask for the total move-in amount, deposits, fees, utilities, and refund rules.
During the lease
Review duration, renewal, rent increases, maintenance, pets, parking, entry, renters insurance, and early-termination terms.
Renting versus buying
Renting avoids some ownership costs and can make relocation easier, while buying may build equity but adds financing, maintenance, transaction, and market risk.
Questions to bring to a professional
- Is buying optional or required, and exactly how is that stated?
- What cash is refundable, credited, or at risk?
- Which payment amount excludes taxes, insurance, fees, or maintenance?
- What title search, inspection, appraisal, recording, or disclosure steps apply?
- What happens after default, a missed deadline, or inability to refinance?
Important: No universal credit score, down payment, interest rate, or approval rule applies. Do not rely on an example as an offer.