A lot of people are not aware that they can actually negotiate a lower rent before moving. When they see a price, they think that what they see is the final price. But in reality, you can actually negotiate rent and try to get some benefits for you and your family. There are some things that you need to know before you start negotiating. And that is why we have this simple guide to help you in this process. Relocation is often overwhelming, you need to find residential movers NJ, you need to pack and you need to find your new home. But like anything other in life, you can try to get the best out of this situation.

How to negotiate a lower rent before moving?

So, naturally, a lot of people are confused about how to actually start to negotiate a lower rent. Some might feel uncomfortable, some might be scared that they will lose the apartment they want. But in reality, negotiating about rent is a normal thing and something that you can learn. You just need to learn some basic rules and be sure to apply them. We understand that this action is often outside the comfort zone for most people, but keep in mind that by doing this you will save a lot of money. 
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You should try to negotiate a lower rent

Not everyone will be successful in this because there are a lot of factors that are important int his process. The location is the apartment wanted and similar. Also, you should check the average rent prices before you start. But regardless you should try to negotiate a lower rent before moving in. 

What is the golden rule of negotiating?

 Well, instead of making the other side like they are losing money – you need to make them feel like they are winning. You should forget about whining, hustling the price. Also, you should find something that your future landlord would appreciate in return. Simply, if you offer them something in exchange for lower rent there is a great chance that you will actually get lower rent. Don’t try to make them feel bad by saying you are still trying to find a job before you move, or by telling them some sad stories. It is important to create a positive atmosphere where they can actually feel like they are getting something out of your deal. 
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it is important to make your landlord feel like they are winning

What you can use to negotiate a lower rent before moving?

Well like everything in life there are some things that you can use and offer to your future landlord that can attract them to lower your rent. We gathered some most common and most useful tips:
  • Can you prepay for several months in advance? This is something that every landlord would love. If you pay a couple of months in advance, they are worry-free for that period of time. They do not have to chase their tenants. And if you can offer to pay 6 months in advance, that is a great thing that will probably make your landlord give you a discount. And by saving on that, you can actually hire experts to relocate your belongings and, especially if you have some specialty items like a lot of computers and electronic equipment.
  • Are you able to commit to a longer lease? This is something that will definitely make your landlord give you a lower price even without the negotiating about the rent. But be careful with this one. Make sure to check the apartment and the lease contract. 
  • Do you have a car? Do you need a parking spot? You can use this as a bargaining chip. If you do not have a car and do not need the parking spot, you can offer your landlord to give it as an extra to some other tenants and to lower your rent. 

Know what you want

A really important thing is to actually know when and what you want when you are trying to negotiate a lower rent before moving. It is very important to have a price on your mind, because if not – you are the mercy of your landlord. But, if you have a clear number in your mind – everything will be much easier. Even you have a voucher and you are using section 8 moving, you can still negotiate with a number that you want.  
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Make sure to know what you want before you start the negotiating

Do you want to negotiate for additional benefits as well?

A lot of people are focused on lower rent and they simply disregard additional amenities. But keep in mind that besides lower rent you can negotiate on many other things. You can try to negotiate about a free parking spot or a free storage unit. Those things are often paid additionally, but you can try to talk with your landlord and get them to give you those things for free. Make sure to add this to your moving checklist, since these things can help you a lot later. 

Prepare your rental resume when you want to negotiate a lower rent before moving

Like when you are applying for a job and you have your resume, you should create one when you want to get the lower rent for your dream apartment. This will give some clarity to the landlord, and they will know what they are dealing with. Also, it will leave a really great first impression. Some of the things that you should include in your rental resume when you want to negotiate a lower rent before moving are: 
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Create your rental resume

  • Your credit score
  • Information on pets/roommates
  • Rental history
  • Referrals or letters of recommendation
These things will definitely improve your position with the landlord and it will be clear that you are taking everything seriously and that the landlord won’t have any issues with you. 

Think about your goal

Although you are relocating, and everything is overwhelming and you might feel stressed – keep your goal on your mind. You have found your perfect moving company, you are organizing and ready for the relocation. Negotiating is one of the things that you should keep on your mind and find a great moment to do it. Don’t wait for the last moment to do that. Keep a positive attitude and you will reach your wanted rent price.