Landlord making us pay rent even after getting another renter

Hi,

I live in NJ.Because of work issues and financial problems, we are moving to my in-laws place and have to break the lease.The landlord told us we have to give $400 for breaking the lease and also rent for as long as the apartment is rented to another leesse or our lease ends.So we had a friend who agreed to lease our apartment.We leave on the 31st of May.He agreed to sign the lease from 1st June,but the landlord said they need 2 weeks to clean up the apartment, so they will let our friend sign the lease from 15th June.He applied, was approved and signed the lease from the 15th of June.Now the Landlord isnt giving us any referral fee, instead wants us to give $400 for breaking the lease, plus 2 weeks rent.We don't have that kind of money.We agreed to give the $400 for breaking the lease, but since the landlord needs 2 weeks to clean up the place,that's not our fault.Can the landlord make us pay for those 2 weeks?
Please help. I have lost my job and can't afford to pay.
Thanks.

You can dispute that or even go to small claims; if the friend was willing to take it as is then you met your side of the agreement.