How to Respond to a Lease Buyout Offer in New Hampshire

Moving Out & Ending a Lease New Hampshire published: June 21, 2025 Flag of New Hampshire

If you're a New Hampshire renter and your landlord offers you a lease buyout, understanding your rights and the process is crucial. Lease buyouts can come unexpectedly—often when a landlord wants to make changes to the property or end your rental early. This guide explains what a lease buyout is, what New Hampshire renters should know, and key steps to respond confidently and legally.

What Is a Lease Buyout?

A lease buyout is when a landlord offers you money or another benefit to end your lease early and vacate the rental unit. While this can seem appealing, it has important legal consequences. Accepting a buyout usually means you agree to move out on a specific date and give up your remaining lease rights.

Are Lease Buyouts Legal in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire landlord-tenant law allows private agreements to end a lease early, including buyouts, as long as both parties agree willingly and in writing. New Hampshire RSA Chapter 540: Landlord and Tenant governs these matters. Landlords cannot force you to accept a buyout or threaten retaliation if you refuse.[1]

Your Rights and Considerations Before Accepting

  • Voluntary Choice: You are not required by law to accept a buyout offer. Weigh your options before deciding.
  • Time to Decide: Ask for the offer in writing and request a reasonable amount of time to consider it, ideally a few days.
  • Written Agreement: Any buyout should be finalized in a clear, signed written agreement that states: move-out date, compensation amount, and terms (like cleaning, security deposit, or waiving future claims).
  • Security Deposit: You still have the right to the return of your security deposit (minus lawful deductions). Review the official NH security deposit rules for details.
Always get any buyout agreement or promise in writing. Verbal agreements are difficult to enforce if disputes arise.

Relevant Official Forms and Processes

  • Voluntary Surrender or Settlement Agreement – New Hampshire does not provide a standardized form. Instead, your agreement should be a signed written document covering all terms. Review an example of required elements from the NH Judicial Branch sample agreement (NHJB-2062-DFP). If you have questions about preparing one, contact the New Hampshire Judicial Branch or a legal aid resource.
  • Notice to Quit Form (NHJB-2332-DP): If a buyout offer includes a termination notice, the Notice to Quit form (NHJB-2332-DP) must be used for formal eviction processes. If you do not agree to the buyout, this is typically the next legal step a landlord may take.
    • When to Use: Only when a landlord is formally ending your tenancy (not just offering a buyout and you agree voluntarily). For example, if you refuse the buyout and the landlord wants to pursue eviction.

Steps for Renters Responding to a Buyout Offer

  • Receive and review the buyout offer in writing.
  • Request time to consider and possibly seek advice or clarification.
  • Check the terms: Is the offer fair, realistic for your move-out, and does it cover moving costs?
  • Negotiate if needed. You can propose a higher amount, different timeline, or additional terms.
  • If you accept, prepare a detailed written agreement covering all terms. Both parties must sign.
  • Keep a copy for your records.
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What Happens if You Refuse the Buyout?

If you choose not to accept, your current lease remains in effect. The landlord must follow normal state eviction process (with proper written notice and, if needed, court involvement as overseen by the New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division). You cannot be lawfully forced out without these steps.[2]

Helpful Tips for Renters

  • Document all communications regarding buyouts or ending your lease.
  • Be cautious of pressure tactics. A buyout should be mutually beneficial.
  • If unsure, seek advice from legal aid or a tenant advocacy organization before signing any agreement.
Remember, you have the right to consult with someone you trust before making any big housing decisions.

FAQ: Lease Buyouts for New Hampshire Renters

  1. Do I have to accept a lease buyout offer from my landlord? No, accepting a buyout is voluntary. You cannot be forced to agree, and your lease remains valid if you refuse.
  2. What should a lease buyout agreement include? A good buyout agreement should clearly state the move-out date, payment amount, terms for the security deposit, and both your and your landlord's signatures.
  3. What if my landlord tries to evict me after I refuse a buyout? Your landlord must follow New Hampshire’s legal eviction process, including giving you a formal Notice to Quit and possibly seeking a court order if needed.
  4. Can I ask for more money or different terms in a buyout? Yes, you can negotiate the offer—consider your moving costs, how quickly you’d have to move, and any impact on your future housing.
  5. Where can I get help if I'm not sure about agreeing to a buyout? Contact the New Hampshire Legal Assistance or your local Circuit Court for guidance before signing.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for New Hampshire Renters

  • You have the right to accept, negotiate, or refuse a lease buyout offer—never feel pressured.
  • Always get any agreement in writing; never rely on spoken promises alone.
  • If you are unsure, seek free advice from renter support services to protect your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. New Hampshire RSA Chapter 540: Landlord and Tenant
  2. New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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