Short-term rentals (month-to-month?) (Boston, Waltham, Natick: sublets, apartment complexes, college)

[morningtheft]

I've just accepted a job (my first post-college job) in Boston that's expected to last for four months, although it may continue longer. If it ends after four months, I'll try to find another job in Boston, but the worst case scenario is that I won't be able to find another job soon enough and I'll have to move back with my parents.

For situations like these, what are the renting options?

I know there's such a thing as month-to-month/tenancy-at-will leases. How easy are these to find in Boston? Are there certain realtors that offer them? How do you get one of these?

What about 6-month leases, are they readily available in Boston?

Basically, where can I live that doesn't involve a 12-month lease? Or if a 12-month lease is the only option, could I just find someone to replace me if I have to leave early?

(I'd be looking for a studio ideally, but I'd consider living with roommates if necessary.)

[altlover85]

I would look on craigslist for sublets.

[wivenhoe]

There are apartment complexes in many of the metro Boston area - Waltham, Natick, and Lexington come to my mind - that allow 6-12 month leases. I'm sure there are some in other places, but we were looking in the metro west area of Boston when we moved back to NYC and didn't want to sign a 12-month lease either.

If you pick up a free apartment guide or look online (Apartments for Rent and Rentals - Free Apartment Finder | ApartmentGuide.com or Apartments for Rent | An Apartment Finder & Guide for Rentals - ForRent.com, for instance), you'll see that there are many complexes around that are willing to offer less than 12 months. The apartment complexes will charge you a higher rate for a lease less than 12 months, which you may be able to extend or shorten if necessary.

The problem is that these complexes can be quite pricey. There's a lot of variations in the quality of these apartment complexes and accessibility to Boston. Still, it may be an option for you.

Otherwise, I also suggest looking on Craig's List for sublets. If you're a single person without any pets and are a quiet, non-smoker, you should have better luck.