Short Terms Exist, at a Price
Most Houston high rises are built around 12–15 month leases. Shorter terms are available at some buildings, but they cost more per month and usually lose access to specials. This guide explains which terms exist, how premiums work and when a short lease makes sense. It is part of our furnished and short-term high rise search.
The Common Term Options
| Term | Availability | Typical pricing |
|---|---|---|
| 3 months | Limited, building-specific | Highest monthly premium |
| 6 months | More common | Moderate premium |
| 9 months | Some buildings | Smaller premium |
| 12 months | Standard | Base pricing |
| 13–15 months | Common for specials | Base pricing, often with concessions |
Exact premiums vary by building, unit and season. We quote current numbers from our tracked data.
Why Short Terms Cost More
Revenue management software prices lease terms by how they affect the building’s expiration calendar. A short lease creates turnover sooner, which costs the building cleaning, marketing and vacancy time. The premium covers that risk. Terms that end in busy leasing months may price better than terms that end in winter.
Try adjusting the end date
A 7-month lease that ends in summer can price better than a 6-month lease ending in January. Ask to see several term lengths.
Specials Usually Do Not Apply
In October 2026, many concessions in our data required longer leases, such as Market Square Tower’s 1 month free on a 14-month lease and Catalyst Houston’s 50% off 3 months on a 15-month lease. Short-term leases typically do not qualify. Compare a short lease’s total cost against a 12-month lease with a special and an early termination fee; sometimes the longer lease is cheaper even if you leave early.
Who Needs Short Terms
- Medical rotations and fellows with fixed program dates. See apartments for medical residents.
- Corporate assignments of a few months.
- People between homes while a house sells or a build finishes.
- Interns and seasonal workers.
Furnished and Short-Term Together
Short terms often pair with furnished units. That adds a furnished premium on top of the short-term premium. Our furnished vs. unfurnished guide helps you decide whether furniture rental makes more sense.
Questions to Ask
- What is the shortest term available on this unit?
- What is the monthly rate at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months?
- Does any special apply to the short term?
- What are the early termination terms on a 12-month lease?
- Can I go month-to-month after the initial term?
Short Lease vs. Long Lease with Early Termination
Sometimes the cheaper route is a 12-month lease you end early. Compare:
| Option | What you pay |
|---|---|
| 6-month lease | Six months at the short-term rate, usually no special |
| 12-month lease, leave at 6 | Six months at the standard rate, minus any special received, plus the early termination fee |
If the 12-month lease has a strong special and a reasonable termination fee, it can cost less. Read the termination clause carefully: some buildings also claw back concessions when you leave early.
Month-to-Month After Your Lease
Many buildings let you go month-to-month after your initial term ends, at a premium over the renewal rate. It is a useful bridge if your plans are uncertain, but plan for the higher monthly cost and a shorter notice window.
Get Current Short-Term Options
Tell us your exact dates. We will check which towers offer the term you need and compare it with a 12-month lease plus early termination. Start your search.
