Lease-Up
The process of leasing vacant units in a new or renovated rental property as it moves toward its stated occupancy target.
Lease-up is the process of filling vacant units as a new or renovated rental property begins operating. It includes attracting prospects, handling inquiries, signing leases, and coordinating move-ins.
Report progress against a stated occupancy target and date. Signed leases, occupied units, and collected rent are separate milestones; a signed lease alone does not demonstrate that rental income has been received.
Source: AppFolio, How to Successfully Manage a Lease-Up, November 4, 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should lease-up progress be reported?
State the reporting date and occupancy target, and distinguish leases signed from units occupied and rent collected.
More in Leasing
See all Leasing terms →Assignment of Lease
The complete legal transfer of an existing tenant's entire leasehold rights, obligations, and physical occupancy to a new incoming tenant.
Read definition →Base Rent
The fixed minimum monthly rent agreed upon in a lease agreement, excluding utilities, janitorial, or shared operating expense pass-throughs.
Read definition →Co-Tenancy Clause
A commercial lease clause granting rent reductions or termination rights if anchor tenants vacate or center occupancy falls below agreed levels.
Read definition →Concession
A rental concession is an allowance, such as a free-rent period or move-in credit, that reduces rental income.
Read definition →Continuous Operation Covenant
A commercial lease requirement obligating a retail tenant to keep its store open, fully stocked, and staffed during designated business hours.
Read definition →