If you decide to move out of your place before your lease is up, it may be costlier than you think. That's because in most states, if you leave early, you are still responsible for paying the rent until the landlord finds a new tenant. And it's possible that you might end up being charged for part of what it costs your landlord to re-rent the property.

On the other hand, your landlord is obligated to find a new tenant as soon as possible, which means you hopefully won't have to pay out the rest of your lease. And some landlords will let you leave early if you pay a termination fee or give up your deposit. If you've got this opportunity, it could save you money, especially if you're not sure your landlord will be able -- or willing -- to re-rent your place right away.

It pays to think ahead about the possibility that you'll want to change your living arrangements. It may be that the only time you can choose the termination option is when you sign the initial lease, not when you renew.

What happens if you're evicted? Click here for the answer!