Find Someone to Take Over Your Lease
ReletMe is a nationwide marketplace connecting renters who need to get out of a lease with renters looking to take one over. Post your lease, browse takeovers, and connect with qualified renters in your city or near your campus. Landlords still approve the transfer — ReletMe is a marketplace, not a party to your lease.
Lease takeover vs. sublease vs. breaking your lease
There are three common ways to handle a lease you can't finish. Here's how they usually differ.
| Lease takeover | Sublease | Breaking your lease | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who holds the lease | The new renter, once the landlord approves | Usually still you | No one — the lease ends early |
| Your ongoing responsibility | Typically released in writing | You often stay responsible for rent and damage | Any early-termination costs in your lease |
| Landlord involvement | Landlord approves the new tenant | Permission is often required | Follow the lease's termination terms |
| Best for | Leaving for good before the term ends | Short absences when you plan to return | When no replacement can be found |
Every lease is different. Check your lease and local law before choosing an option. Read the full comparison guide.
Popular lease takeover markets
Explore lease takeovers by city, including markets near major universities. Each page covers local areas, lease timing, and common questions.
- Austin, TX
- Dallas, TX
- Charlotte, NC
- Orlando, FL
- Jacksonville, FL
- College Station, TX
- East Lansing, MI
- Arlington, TX — near UT Arlington
- Columbus, OH — near Ohio State
- State College, PA — near Penn State
- Baton Rouge, LA — near LSU
- New Brunswick, NJ — near Rutgers
- Tampa, FL — near USF
- Minneapolis, MN — near University of Minnesota
- Denver, CO — near University of Denver
Lease takeover FAQ
Can I transfer my apartment lease to someone else?
Often, yes. Many leases allow an assignment or lease takeover with the landlord's written approval. Your lease's assignment or sublet clause explains whether it's allowed and what steps are required, so check your lease and local law before you list.
What is a relet fee?
A relet or lease transfer fee is a charge some landlords apply to process a new tenant taking over an existing lease. Whether there is a fee, and how much it is, depends on your lease and property. Ask your leasing office for the current amount.
Does my landlord have to approve a lease takeover?
In nearly every case, yes. The landlord or property manager screens and approves the new tenant before the lease transfers. ReletMe is a marketplace and is not a party to your lease, so the approval and paperwork happen directly with your landlord.
Is a lease takeover the same as subletting?
No. With a sublease, you usually stay on the lease and remain responsible while someone else lives there. With a lease takeover, the new renter replaces you on the lease once the landlord approves, and you're typically released in writing.
What happens to my security deposit?
It depends on your landlord's process. Some properties return your deposit after a move-out inspection and collect a new one from the incoming renter; others handle it differently. Confirm the deposit terms with your landlord in writing before the transfer.
Are renters on ReletMe verified?
Yes — on both sides. Renters listing a lease takeover verify their identity before posting, and renters looking to take over a lease verify their email and identity before they can send an inquiry or message. Every conversation starts with a verified person.
How long does it take to find a replacement?
It varies by market, season, rent, and lease terms, and there's no guaranteed timeline. Listing as early as possible, pricing in line with nearby rentals, and including clear photos and complete details all help.