Lease Flexibility
Month-to-month.
From day one.
Most apartments in Hillcrest require a 12-month lease. We don’t. Month-to-month is available from the start—no minimum term, no hoops. If your situation is uncertain, your lease shouldn’t be the thing that pins you down.
lease term
to move out
flexibility premium
How lease flexibility works here
Three options. All available from move-in. No bait-and-switch where “flexible” means “after you finish a 12-month term.”
Month-to-month
Available from day one. $100 per month above the standard lease rate. Give 30 days’ notice when you’re ready to go. No early termination fees, no penalties, no negotiation. That’s the entire arrangement.
Standard lease terms
If you know you’re staying, a longer lease gets you a lower monthly rate. Terms vary by unit and availability. You can convert from month-to-month to a longer lease at any time—or start with one from the beginning.
Early termination option
Longer leases can include an early termination provision. Details and terms vary—ask when you apply. It’s a middle ground between committing to a full term and paying the month-to-month premium every month.
SCRA protections honored
Active-duty servicemembers who receive PCS orders or deploy can terminate their lease under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act. No penalties, no fees—30 days after the next rent due date. More on military leasing →
When flexibility matters
A month-to-month lease costs more per month. That’s the tradeoff, and it’s worth being upfront about it. But $100 a month is cheap insurance in certain situations—and it’s a fraction of what breaking a 12-month lease would cost.
You’re relocating and haven’t committed to San Diego yet. You want to try the neighborhood, test a commute, see if the city fits. Signing a year-long lease before you’re sure is a gamble. Month-to-month lets you settle in without the pressure. More on relocating to San Diego →
You’re between permanent housing. Waiting on a home purchase to close. Renovating a place. In transition after a life change. You need somewhere real to live—not a hotel, not a sublet from a stranger—without a long-term commitment.
Your job might move. Remote work, contract positions, travel nursing, military orders, startup life. If your work situation could change in six months, a 12-month lease is a liability.
You want to try Hillcrest before you commit. The neighborhood sells itself, but some people want to experience it firsthand. Start month-to-month. If you love it—and people tend to—convert to a longer lease and drop the premium.
What it costs, plainly
No hidden fees for choosing flexibility. The only difference is the monthly rate.
Same application process
Same application, same requirements, same timeline. Choosing month-to-month doesn’t change anything about how you apply or qualify. The lease term is a conversation, not a gate.
Same deposit
Security deposit is the same regardless of lease length. No extra deposit for month-to-month. Fully refundable per California law.
Switch anytime
Start month-to-month and switch to a longer term whenever you’re ready. Your rate drops to the standard lease price. No fees to convert, no new application.
Apartments with flexible leases
4 apartments currently available, starting from $1,898/mo. Flexible leases, pet-friendly, in the heart of Hillcrest.
Virtually staged
Virtually staged
*Reflects available incentives—see unit page for details and options.
See what’s available
4 apartments currently available, starting from $1,898/mo. Flexible leases, pet-friendly, in the heart of Hillcrest.
Questions about flexible leases
Is month-to-month available from the start of my lease?
Yes. You can start on a month-to-month lease from day one. There’s no required initial term you have to complete first.
How much more does month-to-month cost?
$100 per month above the standard lease rate for your unit. No additional deposits, fees, or charges. See current pricing & fees for base rates.
Can I switch from month-to-month to a longer lease later?
Yes, at any time. Your monthly rate drops to the standard lease price. No fees to convert and no new application required.
What notice do I need to give to move out?
30 days’ written notice. No early termination fees—that’s the whole point of month-to-month. Your notice triggers at the next rent due date.
Is there an early termination option on longer leases?
Yes, early termination provisions are available on longer-term leases. Terms vary, so ask about current options when you apply or schedule a tour. It’s a middle ground between full commitment and the month-to-month premium.
Do I need a different application for month-to-month?
No. Same application, same income requirement (2.5× rent), same process. Lease term is a preference you discuss during the application—it doesn’t change the requirements. Learn how to apply.
I’m active-duty military. What are my options?
Active-duty servicemembers can terminate any lease under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) upon receiving PCS orders or deployment—no penalties, 30 days after the next rent due date. Month-to-month is also available if you prefer. BAH is accepted toward the income requirement. See the full military page.
Want to talk lease options?
Tours are by appointment—Rob handles them personally and can walk through the options. Text, call, or schedule online.