How to Get Your Landlord to Lower Your Rent

Manuel Simonis
Published Sep 23, 2024


Rent prices can be really high sometimes, eating up a big part of what people earn, especially in places like Oakland and New York City where more than 70% of what households make goes straight to rent

It often feels like you just have to accept whatever rent you're given, but there are times you might be able to talk your landlord into making it a bit more affordable.
 

1. Show You're a Good Tenant


Being seen as reliable can really work in your favor when trying to reduce your rent. Landlords are more likely to listen to you if they think of you as dependable and trustworthy. 

Before talking to your landlord, gather any documents that show you're financially stable and highlight any positive references from past landlords.
 

2. Do Your Research


Your landlord is more likely to take you seriously if you come to them with actual data rather than just throwing out a number you hope for. 

Look up the rental prices of similar apartments in your area to back up your request for lower rent.
 

3. Present a Win-Win Situation


When negotiating, it's important to show how your landlord also benefits, not just you. 

You could offer something in return for lower rent, like a bigger security deposit or helping out with some maintenance around the property.

Check Out: How Rental Assistance Programs Impact Landlords and Housing Markets
 

4. Offer to Sign a Longer Lease


Agreeing to stay in the apartment for more than a year can be enticing to landlords. 

Finding reliable tenants can be tough, so your landlord might lower your rent if it means they don't have to look for new tenants as often.
 

5. Offer to Pay Rent Early


Telling your landlord you'll pay your rent before the typical due date each month might also encourage them to consider your request for lower rent. 

This could show your commitment and reliability as a tenant.
 

6. Keep Your Promise


If you do manage to get your rent lowered, make sure to stick to any agreements you've made. 

If you don't, you could upset your landlord and lose the discounted rent.
 

Final Thought


Negotiating rent isn't always possible, especially in high-demand areas. However, if you're moving to a place where tenants have a bit more power, it's definitely worth trying to lower your rent costs.

-

Find programs that help with rent by signing up here

Related Articles

How to Find Affordable Rental Space Around the Country...

An affordable home allows you to save funds for different money-making projects. It also allows you to provide a comfortable life for your family. Luckily, there are many affordable houses around the countr...

Important Bills Piling Up? Tips for Finding the Money you Need!...

Even before the pandemic, many people struggled to pay necessary bills, such as housing rental or mortgage costs, utilities and automobile insurance. Their incomes weren't high enough to keep up with...

Beware of Rental Fraud: Your Guide to Avoiding Common Scams...

Finding a new place to call home is an exciting venture, but it also comes with potential pitfalls. Rental fraud is a real concern, and it's essential to stay informed to protect yourself from scams. ...

Vital Factors All Aspiring Renters Must Consider When Applying for a Subsidized Property Through Section 8...

Section 8 is a government-funded program that allows eligible low-income families, elderly people, and the disabled access to affordable housing. It helps people ...

It's Time for a New Cell Phone and Plan!...

Did you know that you can get a a new cell phone and very low rate plan if you already qualify for one of these: - Food Stamps or SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) - Medicaid - Supplemental Security Income (SSI) - F...

The Best Cities for Renters: A Closer Look at Forbes Advisor's Ranking...

In a recent study conducted by Forbes Advisor, the best cities for renters in the United States were identified based on several key metrics. This analysis considered factors such as: average...