Financial Glossary Header Image

Rental Advance

Updated on July 18, 2023


A rental advance, in this specific context, refers to a payment made by a tenant to the landlord at the start of a lease term. This payment is typically a lump sum and serves as an upfront guarantee of financial security for the landlord. However, instead of being fully retained by the landlord, the rental advance is gradually adjusted and offset against the monthly base rental payments made by the tenant throughout the lease term.

Understanding Rental Advance in detail

Lump Sum Payment – At the start of the lease, the tenant provides a significant lump sum payment to demonstrate their commitment to meeting financial obligations throughout the lease period.

Equal Installments – The rental advance is divided into equal installments, which are deducted from the monthly rent paid by the tenant. This ensures a gradual depletion of the rental advance while maintaining a consistent cash flow for the landlord.

Adjustment Factors – The specific factors for adjusting the rental advance installments vary based on the agreement between the tenant and landlord, such as a predetermined formula or fixed monthly deduction.

Range of Advance Amount – The rental advance amount varies based on factors like the property’s location, type, lease duration, and local rental market conditions. Typically, it ranges from 3 to 18 months’ worth of rent.

Considerations for City, Property Type, and Lease Period – The rental advance amount is influenced by factors including the rental market dynamics in a city, the property type (residential, commercial), location within the city, and the lease duration. These factors help determine the specific advance amount.