违约怎么办? 房东is mean

Due to the massive budget cutting, I have to get another job in another state, I gave my landlord 28 days of notice that I am leaving and cannot afford to pay 2 rents. They said that legally, I am obligated to pay the rent until the end of the lease (May 2011).

According to the lease, the renters are obligated to pay the rent until the lease expires. We must give them 60 days of written notice. The written agreement between the two parties will make the moving day effective with signatures from both parties. In case of failure, the default of the lease specifies that they can take my personal property.

I heard two stories. More than 1 American friends told me that I can break the lease and leave. At most, they would ask for 1 more month rent. Some of them have actually done this.

The second story came from a person who actually works for the landlord association. He told me that the landlord can track me down across the country to make me pay the rent until the lease ends.

I went to the leasing office and offered to pay them a lump of money to get out of the lease. They declined.

I did post the ad on the craiglist in efforts to find someone to take over the lease.

I am confused with the two different stories. Anyone can give me some suggestions? First, how to handle this type of situation. Second, what steps can I take to protect myself? I cannot afford two rents at all financially.

Your early reply is much appreciated.