Can Renters Haggle Over their Rent

If you have ever attempted to negotiate for a vehicle you can understand how frustrating the process can be. Attempting to haggle over price and terms can lead to moments of anxiety, anger, and displeasure. Some potential buyers will do whatever they can to earn the best price for themselves. Many customers will simply call the dealer asking for their best price while others will drive around endlessly trying to haggle in person for every dollar they can at every dealership in the area.

When it comes down to purchasing real estate the type of negotiation is a little different. Usually real estate agents act as mediators between the buyer and seller and try to come together to agree on one price together.

Purchasing items in the supermarket or retail stores is entirely different. Consumers typically purchase items solely based upon the sticker price on the items. Typically you will not walk in a HEB or Neiman Marcus and state "I will pay this amount for this product. So as it seems certain unwritten rules have been established for different goods.

We wanted to discuss how the negotiation for rental rates works at apartments today. First off, if we are chatting about smaller apartment communities that number in the area of 10 or 20 units and are under the management of a landlord or owner, negotiations can go as you would like. Since you are dealing with the owner you can name your terms.

What about the larger apartment communities like a Gables or AMLI that have apartment homes that number in the hundreds for each separate apartment community. Can we negotiate with them.

The answer is directly that you cannot negotiate a lower rent. But that does not mean they don’t offer specials. As consumers we are taught only to purchase products when their is a special sale or discount on those goods.

Think of these larger apartment communities like department stores. They will "shop" around the area for comparable apartment communities that offer like services. They realize that you as the consumer will also view other apartment homes. So their prices should be comparable and competitive.

Apartments will also offer specials to you after you tour the community. If you sign long term lease they may also include 1 or 2 months free rent.

And some apartment communities take it a step further. If you lease that day they will include another incentive. Sometimes is comes in the form of additional discounts or products like a flat screen TV.

Please read more about Conroe Apartments.