4 Tips For Negotiating a Better Rental Agreement

Renting is hard. It’s easy to get lost in the length and language of rental agreements, but it’s important not to get discouraged when that happens. Rental agreements are fundamental documents that lay out the details of your tenancy, so when you’re ready to negotiate their terms, give them the attention they deserve with the help of these tips.

Research the Property

Like prepping for a job interview, make sure you know about the property you’re negotiating. Research the market so you know a reasonable price to ask for (and to expect). Read up on comparable properties in your neighborhood so you can use them as references during the rental discussion. There are resources that can help here, including online rent indexes that list comparable prices and vacancies for major cities.

Research the Landlord

As a tenant, you’re in partnership with your landlord, so get to know them. Look at other properties they own to see those rental rates. The more prepared you are (to a reasonable degree but leave off the Facebook stalking), the more comfortable you will be while negotiating. And remember that negotiations are two-sided; so try when you can to consider what both parties will get from the deal. Be ready to compromise.

Read the Contract

It’s worth repeating, even though it sounds obvious. But rental contracts need to be read, and read carefully, so that you know what rights you have as a renter, and what responsibilities are yours (versus your landlord’s). Have a lawyer, or a law-minded friend, read over the contract if possible. And when negotiating changes to an already existing agreement, be sure you write them all down and both you and the landlord initial them, on each copy of the contract. This ensures the changes are legal and binding.

Rent Isn’t The Only Negotiable

Rent isn’t the only element of your tenancy that you can negotiate. If the landlord is unable or unwilling to lower the rent, even after you’ve done your research and asked for a reasonable decrease, you can address other aspects. Look at landscaping, or maintenance of the unit. Perhaps you can do a little yard-work to offset some of your other costs. Think creatively.

Approach your rental agreement negotiation with respect and preparation and you’ll be well on your way to a better contract. If you have any questions or concerns, give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253. I know your neighborhood and will be able to help you negotiate.

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15922 W Electra Lane Surprise, AZ 85379

$570,687

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,229 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770484

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Escalante! New Home Ready for immediate Occupancy. This single level 2229 SF, 4 BR, 3 BA with a 3 car garage is located on an interior NS facing homesite surrounded by single level homes, NO two Stories! Exciting included features! Upgraded white cabinets, 42'' Uppers, Granite Countertops, Tile Backsplash, Plank Tile on the floors in all traffic areas! 10' ceilings, 8' interior doors,, garage service door, large extended patio, tankless water heater, front yard landscaping with drip system, PLUS so much more. Neighborhood includes tree lined streets, Parks and Aquatic Center. Energy Star & Indoor Air Plus Certified for more energy savings! 5 Star Resort Style Amenities include, hiking trails, Aquatic Center, 8 select parks, Picnic Ramada's, Basketball, 3 Pickle Ball courts, bocce ball courts, 18 hole disc golf course, and a Zip Line for the kiddos! This home is Energy Star and Indoor Air Plus qualified. Includes full Builder Warranties plus so much More..

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40528 N Parisi Place San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

New

$570,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,361 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785524

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this meticulously cared-for and beautifully updated home. Offering easy access to all the shopping, dining, and entertainment options you could ever need, this property combines modern convenience with timeless style. Step inside to discover a spacious and open floor plan, complete with soaring vaulted ceilings that create a bright and airy atmosphere throughout. The newly renovated kitchen and bathrooms showcase beautiful finishes, including timeless countertops, white cabinetry, and modern fixtures. The luxurious primary ensuite is truly a retreat, featuring a spa-like bathroom with a breathtaking freestanding bathtub and an incredible shower with an incredible control panel. It's the perfect place to unwind after a long day. Additional upgrades include elegant crown molding, new HVAC in 2020, new paint and custom garage cabinets that offer ample storage space. The expansive three-car garage is ideal for car enthusiasts or anyone needing extra storage room. Step outside and enjoy your private oasis. The backyard has been recently landscaped with care and features an outdoor shower, a refreshing pool with custom LED lights and a relaxing water feature. The backyard misting system ensures cool comfort year-round, while the lack of rear neighbors provides added privacy. Whether you're entertaining guests or simply relaxing in your own slice of paradise, this home offers everything you could want and more. Don't miss the opportunity to make this your dream home!

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11226 E Posada Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$570,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,718 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6728991

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Live your best life in the lovely Sunland Springs Village (SSV) 55+ Adult Community. This cozy 2 bd/2bth plus den has all the right touches. Pride of Ownership on Display! Enjoy the Living Area with Electric Fireplace; Porcelain Tile Wall, Stunning Wall of Glass looks out to Extended Patio w/ Travertine Tile, Pergola and 2 firepits. Stellar landscape design; Lush yard with sweet orange and lemon trees. Solar Roof Panels provide energy saving benefits. Plantation shutters adorn the windows. Extended kitchen with granite countertops and energy efficient appliances. This is not just a house but a HOME! Enjoy resort like community amenities: Rec Center, Clubhouse, Ping Pong, Billiards, Golf, Tennis, Pickleball, Shuffleboard, Heated Pools, Jacuzzi, Exercize Rooms, Yoga; SSV has it all! This is a Must See! Please visit the SSV HOA website to learn about the many clubs and activities available in this active adult community:

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20515 N 264th Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$570,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,095 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6741698

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

VALUE! PAID SOLAR LEASE, PAID CFD, NEWER HVAC AND APPLIANCES. This 2 bed/2 bath/Den Destiny model has fabulous golf course views and sets on a quiet street yet it's close to the Sage Recreation Center, the Grill and the Golf shop (location, location, location). This is a quality Del Webb built home with many upgrades. See a more complete list in the Documents tab.

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4216 N 27th Street Unit 106 Phoenix, AZ 85016

$570,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,683 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756185

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

This stunning and spacious townhouse is situated in the Biltmore area and boasts impressive 18-foot ceilings in the main living room, a cozy fireplace, and 10-foot ceilings in each of the bedrooms as well as a two-car garage with epoxy flooring. The expansive primary bedroom includes a private balcony, a generous walk-in closet, and a bathroom featuring an oversized soaking tub and recently remodeled shower. The charming courtyard has been enhanced with turf and pavers, creating a lovely outdoor retreat. Conveniently located near restaurants, shopping, the airport, and major freeways, this home is situated in an exclusive part of Phoenix, in close proximity to Arcadia, Scottsdale, and Paradise Valley.

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1150 S Karen Lane Gilbert, AZ 85296

$570,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,593 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767613

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful, and very well-maintained home in a great location! Home features big open space with vaulted ceiling. kitchen with stainless steel appliances and lots of cabinets with granite counter tops. A nice size master suite with walk-in closet and private access to backyard, and sparkling pool with waterfall feature. Three bedrooms plus an office. Easy maintenance front and backyard landscape. Home located in a nice quiet cul de sac. Move in ready with NEW roof (2021), AC unit (2022), water heater (2024), and irrigation system (2023) throughout the lot with extra new lines for future planting. Greenfield Lakes has an executive length 18-hole golf course and driving range. Located near Santan Mall, Top Ranked Restaurants, and highly desired School District!

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20414 E Happy Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$570,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,185 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781013

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

Fantastic breathtaking mountain views, over an acre of property and NO HOA!!! Size does allow for horses. Spacious floor plan! Master has two separate bathrooms! Kitchen open to family room, tons of cabinet space. Corner Lot. North South facing exposure. Entire property surrounded by no climb fence. This home boasts with updates throughout. This property provides a blank canvas for anyone to make this their dream property! Conveniently close to amenities.

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11169 N Par Drive Tucson, AZ 85737

$570,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,904 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781986

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Spacious 5 bedroom, 3 bath home with a 3 car garage. Open floorplan with family room and formal dining room/living room. Open kitchen with breakfast nook. One large bedroom downstairs and the rest of the bedrooms upstairs. Master suite upstairs with large walk in closet and balcony overlooking the backyard and pool. Landscaped front and backyard with no backyard neighbors. Come show today.

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17416 E Windstone Trail Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$570,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,331 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783005

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

HOME IS COMPLETE AND MOVE IN READY NEW BUILD ON AN ACRE AND A QUARTER LOT WITH BREATHTAKING MOUNTAIN VIEWS. THIS 4 BEDROOM HOME HAS 2331 SQFT, OPEN KITCHEN WITH UPGRADED CABINETS, ISLAND, GRANITE COUNTERS, STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES, DOUBLE OVENS, 36'' COOKTOP, CUSTOM EXHAUST HOOD, MICROWAVE, FARMER SINK AND A WALK IN PANTRY. GREAT ROOM WITH FIREPLACE. MASTER BEDROOM HAS A LARGE WALK IN CLOSET, 36'' HIGH VANITY WITH DUAL SINKS AND GRANITE TOPS, SEPARATE TUB/SHOWER WITH TILE SURROUNDS. EXTRA LARGE LAUNDRY ROOM WITH DEEP SINK.

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1724 W Hemingway Lane Anthem, AZ 85086

$570,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,168 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785447

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the heart of the desirable Anthem Parkside neighborhood, this spacious 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers a blend of comfort and convenience. Located directly across from a beautiful park, it provides serene views and easy access to outdoor recreation right at your doorstep. This home has been recently updated with a brand-new AC unit, water heater, and fresh paint throughout, ensuring energy efficiency and a fresh, modern feel. The master bathroom has also been completely renovated, providing a luxurious retreat within the home. With plenty of space for family and guests alike, this home is move-in ready and primed for memorable gatherings and everyday relaxation.

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1842 N Red Cliff Mesa, AZ 85207

$570,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,379 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783900

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Welcome to this exceptional 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home nestled in the exclusive, gated community of Mountain Bridge. Upgraded and fully furnished, this home is the epitome of move-in ready, offering style, elegance and convenience for modern living. As you step inside, you're greeted by an expansive great room featuring soaring ceilings and an abundance of natural light pouring in through a glass sliding door. This inviting space seamlessly blends comfort and sophistication, making it perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. From the backyard, you can enjoy sweeping views of the desert wash, offering a private & serene landscape on a premium lot! Ultimate resort-style living at this community offers swimming pools, pickle ball/tennis courts, gym, rec center and so much more

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531 W Silver Creek Road Gilbert, AZ 85233

$570,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,020 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6783620

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

ATTENTION: *Potentially* assumable 2.25% VA loan, restrictions apply, must qualify. Nestled in the desirable Madera Park neighborhood, this beautifully remodeled 2 story home offers style and space. This residence offers a thoughtful floorplan including a charming coffee bar and private space under the stairs for littles or pets. Samsung washer/dryer set conveys and features a deep folding shelf of stylish granite. Kitchen equipped with LG fridge, Samsung electric cooktop/oven and built-in micro. Backyard will welcome you all year round with a majestic ficus tree, sandbox play area, a sun-sail over the pebble-tec pool, and there are even producing grape vines! MUST SEE this one ASAP!

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