You can request what is called a "diplomatic clause", which is effectively permission to leave if (and only if) you are transferred by your employer to another country. Some landlords will allow a diplomatic clause and others will not.

Other than that, yes, the contract is normal. If you are really concerned about it, one thing you can do is to put a clause in the contract that allows you to go month-to-month after the first year or request that you be able to get out of the contract (after that first year) with sixty days notice; both of these are fairly normal lease terms. However, going month-to-month leaves you open to rental increases every month unless there is something in the contract that governs the rate increases.

Is unlikely that the landlord will allow you to rent the place out to Joe Schmo if you depart early. There are rental costs for the landlord associated with another lease (attorneys, painting, cleaning, etc.) and. . .think about it. . .would you want someone living in your house to find another tenant for you?

Good luck. . .hope you are not transferred anytime soon!

Expat Sueño