August 14, 2023 | Sammy Tran

How To Save On Rent: Strategies For Negotiating A Lower Lease


In the ever-fluctuating real estate market, it might seem like your rent is just another fixed expense you have to deal with. 

But here's a little-known secret: just like you can negotiate the price of a car, you can negotiate your rent. 

With the right strategies, you can significantly reduce your monthly housing expense. 

Ready to save some cash? Here’s how.

1. Do Your Research

Negotiatingrent SplitPexels

Before you enter any negotiation, arm yourself with information.

Compare Neighborhood Prices: Use online rental platforms like Zillow, Apartments.com, or Rent.com to get a sense of what similar properties in your area are charging.

Know the Vacancy Rates: If there are many available properties in your area, landlords may be more willing to negotiate to fill their vacancies quickly.

2. Sell Yourself As The Ideal Tenant

A family looking at a potential home to live inMart Production, Pexels

Landlords want reliable tenants who'll care for their property and pay on time.

Offer a Longer Lease: By committing to a longer-term, like two years instead of one, you become a more appealing tenant.

Show Your Stability: Highlight a steady job, good credit score, and references from past landlords.

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3. Offer To Pay Upfront

Couple meeting with a realtor going over contracrRDNE Stock project, Pexels

If you have the means, offer to pay several months' rent in advance. This not only showcases your financial stability but also minimizes the landlord's risks, making them more open to reducing the monthly cost.

4. Ask About Unadvertised Discounts

A couple talking to a real estate agentAlena Darmel, Pexels

Some landlords offer discounts that they don’t openly advertise, such as a discount for signing a lease during the offseason or opting for a unit without a view. Always ask if there are any available.

5. Consider A Smaller Unit Or Different Floor Plan

A couple looking at an apartment to rentAlena Darmel, Pexels

If you're open to flexibility, consider opting for a less popular unit or floor plan. These are often priced lower and still offer the same amenities.

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6. Renegotiate At Renewal Time

Two woman shaking handsGeorge Milton, Pexels

If you're a current tenant, consider renegotiating your rent when renewal time comes around, especially if you've been a good tenant. Present any recent market research to bolster your case.

7. Offer To Do It Yourself

A man fixing a toiletanaimd, Adobe Stock

If there are minor improvements or repairs to be done, offer to handle them yourself in exchange for reduced rent. This can save the landlord time and money.

8. Be Willing To Walk Away

A man walking away from a houseOlena, Adobe Stock

If you’ve done your research and know the price you're asking is fair, be prepared to walk away. Sometimes, the mere act of showing you're willing to look elsewhere can bring the landlord back with a better offer.

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9. Consider Bartering

Digital design work setupMclittleStock, Adobe Stock

Do you have a particular skill or service that might be valuable to your landlord? 

Perhaps you're a web designer and the apartment complex's website could use an update. Offer your services in exchange for a rental discount.

10. Ask About Referral Bonuses

A group of people meetingfauxels , Pexels

Some landlords or property managers offer bonuses or rental discounts for referring new tenants. 

If you know someone looking for a place, this could be an easy way to shave off some of your rent.

Negotiating your rent isn't just about saving money, it's about creating a win-win situation for both you and the landlord. 

Approach the process with confidence, respect, and solid data to back up your requests, and you might be surprised at just how much you can save.

Remember, even if you only knock off $50 from your monthly rent, that's $600 in savings per year. Over the span of a typical lease, those savings can be substantial.


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