Raise your hand if rent is the largest line item on your monthly budget. Yep — that’s pretty much everyone.
I’ve been renting since I finished college four years ago, and my partner and I are currently hunting for a new place. We’ve done this before, so we know the right questions to ask. How much will utilities cost? Is water included? Where’s the nearest grocery store? What’s the neighborhood crime rate?
But is it acceptable to inquire whether the rent is negotiable? Absolutely! You might find it easier than you expect to negotiate your way to a lower monthly payment — even if you’re not relocating.
Think about what you can offer your landlordin exchange for a reduction in rent. Below are five methods to swap your abilities for cheaper rent — plus a couple of extra discount ideas.
1. Do Your Job from Home
My partner is training to become a police officer and was recently offered a community watch role at an apartment community — along with a substantial 20% cut in monthly rent.
Always tell your landlord about your occupation.
Have specialized skills like bookkeeping? Offer to manage your landlord’s accounts. It’s a tedious chore they might dislike, and they could be willing to reduce your rent for a few hours of help each month. Tradespeople such as plumbers, electricians and other contractors should propose their services as well. Why have the landlord pay an outside company when the professional lives on-site?
2. Provide On-Site Perks
Apartment communities constantly seek unique services to promote and attract tenants. Maybe you can lead a fitness session onsite or help out with babysitting for neighbors. In pet-friendly complexes, volunteer to walk dogs. You trade your time for a rent discount while the complex gains attractive amenities others may not offer — a true win-win.
3. Offer to Be the Community Gardener
Ask your landlord if there’s a patch of land where you could cultivate a garden, then offer them fresh produce in return for lower rent. To make the deal sweeter, propose doing grocery runs for your landlord and include some of your homegrown fruits and veggies.
4. Put in Some Sweat Equity
Getting physically involved can yield a worthwhile payoff for the time you invest. Volunteer to maintain the grounds and landscaping or handle exterior painting. When other tenants move out, pitch in to clean and prepare the unit for the next occupant.
5. Inquire About Miscellaneous Tasks
Is there a part-time administrative role available? Offer to sort mail, vacuum common areas or tidy the fitness room. These small jobs only require a few hours a week and could shave a meaningful percentage off your rent. Complexes love hiring residents — who knows the property better than someone who lives there?
Could You Qualify for These Extra Discounts?
Asking about current specials can lower or wipe out move-in expenses. If any of the following apply to you, see whether your landlord provides reduced rates.
- Are you or your roommatecurrently serving or a veteran? Tell the landlord. Military-related discounts on rent are common and can add up to significant savings.
- Are you a student or recent graduate? You might qualify for waived application fees or reduced deposits, or even discounted rent. Your school’s resource center can often point you to student-friendly housing options.
- Searching during a slow season? This could be when students are away or in colder months. During these slower periods, landlords may offer lower rents or remove application fees to attract tenants.
Don’t hesitate to ask. Everyone — including your landlord — is looking for ways to save. Swapping your time or talents for discounted rent can make that monthly bill a little easier to swallow. (Like this tip? Click to tweet it).
Your Turn: Have you swapped your time or skills for a lower rent?
Hannah Miles is a freelance writer and blogger who loves strong coffee, her dog Maple, and weekend road trips. She writes about her journeys, career pursuits, and inspirations on Entirely-Erica.com.
