New Landlord Bought My Building Six Weeks Ago, Has Collected Rent, But Has Not Given Me A New Lease Yet.

Location: Pennsylvania USA, Centre County.

Hi everyone! I live in the upstairs of a rental duplex. I moved in in July 2025 with a yearlong lease, which then converted to month-to-month in July of 2026 (a few months ago). In August, my duplex sold to a new owner.

The new owner/landlord moved into the downstairs on August 21st. I met her that day and introduced myself. Things felt very friendly, and she told me verbally that this was my home, and I could stay here as long as I like, and that we would sign a new rental agreement soon, and that she wouldn't be changing my rent for this year. I thanked her very much, and it was a very positive conversation.

It is now mid-October, and she has still not sent me a lease.

I have sent her rent for both September and October. I also have written confirmation that there is intent to sign a new rental agreement from them, via text on the 1st of October. Ten days later, still no lease.

In the absence of a signed lease, I'm feeling vulnerable as a renter. They clearly have expressed intent to keep me as a tenant in writing and because they've accepted my rent money, but it's making me nervous.

Does anyone have experience navigating this sort of limbo? Does the month-to-month lease automatically transfer from old owner to new in the context of a sale? Or do we actually have zero rental agreement that legally applies to us right now? Do I need to be nervous? Can I chill out? Are there any steps I can take to protect myself?

Thank you!