Is it wise to VERBALLY agree to a higher monthly rent amount with my landlord?

Question

I rent a house, my landlord wants to sell. To put her off on selling, I suggested paying higher rent which she agreed to, but said there is no need for a new lease. My gut tells me this is wrong. Please help!

Answer 1

You are right. In the case of rentals and such it's always best to have it in writing, even if it's not a formal lease. Let her know that you're uncomfortable with a verbal agreement (to make it easier let her know it's to protect BOTH of you) and see if you guys can't draft an agreement that will work for both of you.

Answer 2

Actually, a higher rent will attract the buyer more! Ask the landlord to put a clause in the buying agreement that allows you to stay as a tenant. If you are a good tenant, the buyer shouldn't mind. If a landlord wants to sell....a couple bucks higher rent isn't going to stop them!

Answer 3

I think you should still ask for a lease. you could just be paying this higher rent while she is still trying to sell the house. If you are on a month to month basis with your land lord she could sell and then you will only have 30 days to vacate. at least with the lease you will be a little more secure for at least the time that is left on your contract.

Answer 4

You'd be best to reduce it all to writing. Although a verbal agreement is valid (assuming you don't have a current written lease, of course) it's always best to put it in writing as there can be no disagreements with the written word unlike people's memories on oral agreements.

Answer 5

yes you shoudl resign a new lease. if u dont then u will be living on a month to month agreement and she can ask you to vacate at anytime on 30 days notice. renegotiate a new lease with this proposed raised rent.

Answer 6

When terms of any legal document change, the changes should always be put in writing.