Many people don't realize that you can negotiate rent. When it comes time to find a new apartment, you might not need to pay the price that is advertised. Here's how to negotiate rent for your next apartment.
Show A Good Rental History
Landlords want good tenants that will pay their rent every month. They may be willing to lower the rent if you can show a a good rental history. You can usually satisfy this by having your former landlord give a reference for you.
Offer To Do Small Repairs Yourself
The property you plan on renting may need small repairs from time to time. A great way to knock a little bit off of your rent is to offer to do these repairs yourself. If your new landlord agrees to it, you need to make sure that you get it in writing what kinds of repairs you will be responsible for.
Find Out If There Is A Discount For Paying Early
If you pay your rent early every month, you may be able to get a discount. Ask your landlord if they will lower your rent if you pay it by a certain date. In order to ensure that they get their rent on-time, many landlords will offer the incentive of lowering rent if you pay it a few days early.
Ask For A Discount For Signing A Longer Lease
You might be able to get a discount on your rent by signing a longer lease. This is only a good option if you know that you love the rental. If you have a job that requires you to relocate, you may find that this isn't feasible for you. The length the landlord wants to extend your lease may vary from a few months to a year.
Discuss The Rent Prices For Similar Apartments In The Area
Some landlords might be charging more for their apartment than the going rate for similar apartments in the area. Before you meet with a landlord to view an apartment and go over rent, you need to do a little bit of research. Find out how much other nearby apartments are going for. Present your findings to your potential landlord. They may be willing to lower the rent just a bit in order to gain you as a tenant.
In conclusion, you don't always have to pay the advertised price for rent. By following the tips mentioned above, your new landlord may lower the price just a bit. While it might not always work, it really doesn't hurt to try to negotiate with them. The worst that happens is that they don't budge on the price at all.