An Offer to Lease is a formal legal document used by a prospective tenant to express interest in leasing a property from a landlord, or by a landlord to propose lease terms to a potential tenant before entering into a full lease agreement. Its purpose is to outline preliminary terms and conditions including rental amount, lease duration, intended use, and any special requirements or contingencies serving as a foundation for negotiating and finalizing the formal lease. This document helps both parties clarify expectations, begin negotiations, and secure the property while protecting their interests before committing to a binding contract.

The Offer to Lease is commonly used in commercial real estate transactions but may also be applied to significant residential or facility leases. It details important points such as rent price, proposed lease length, maintenance responsibilities, security deposits, and any conditions that must be met before the formal lease can be signed. By setting these terms upfront, it reduces misunderstandings and speeds up the leasing process.

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Why use an Offer to Lease?

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• Clarifies key terms early: Outlines rent, lease term, and conditions at the negotiation stage.
• Provides legal binding intent: Often binding for a limited time to secure the property and negotiate in good faith.
• Facilitates smooth lease negotiation: Sets a framework for drafting the formal lease agreement.
• Protects both parties: Ensures landlord and tenant agree on major points before committing fully.
• Allows contingencies: Specifies requirements such as financial approval or property condition before finalization.

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What to include in an Offer to Lease?

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• Identification of landlord and prospective tenant.
• Description and address of the property.
• Proposed lease term and start date.
• Rent amount and payment terms.
• Intended use of the premises.
• Conditions precedent to final lease (e.g., financing, inspections).
• Responsibilities for maintenance and repairs.
• Security deposit and any other fees.
• Deadline for acceptance or expiration of the offer.
• Signatures of both parties.

If you are a landlord or tenant looking to start the leasing process with clear, state-compliant documentation, using an Offer to Lease template tailored to local regulations is crucial. This ensures your offer is legally sound, comprehensive, and helps prevent disputes later.

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At LawPassport.com, you can sign up and download the correct Offer to Lease template for every state, fully customized to meet your jurisdiction’s leasing laws and requirements. Using the right template streamlines your leasing process and protects your interests.

Visit LawPassport.com today to sign up and download the state-specific Offer to Lease template, so you can confidently negotiate and secure your lease with professional, legally compliant documents.

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