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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1024 N Moccasin Trail Gilbert, AZ 85234

$554,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,063 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6731571

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Make your home in the heart of Gilbert! This beautiful 4 bed, 2 bath home on a premium lot is looking for only it's second owner. A newly painted exterior, manicured front yard, a 2-car garage with built-in cabinets, and a welcoming porch are just the beginning. Inside you will find large dining & living areas w/newly installed wood-look flooring in all the right places, vaulted ceilings w/skylight, and a neutral palette w/fresh interior paint. The kitchen is comprised of white cabinetry, ample counter space, a prep island, a large pantry, and recessed lighting. Enjoy brand-new stainless-steel Whirlpool appliances including a gas range. Soak in the sun or enjoy entertaining on cooler evenings with a backyard that includes a covered patio, extended seating areas w/pavers, a lovely gazebo, and mature citrus trees. Finally, end your busy day in the primary bedroom with a charming bay window, a walk-in closet, and a full bath with dual sink. Near every amenity the Valley has to offer, is it time for you to discover the joy of Gilbert living?

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696 W Melody Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85233

$554,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,976 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6768362

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

These descriptions are always so cheesy so we're going to give it to you straight, this is a really nice home, 1 1/2 miles from downtown Gilbert so you're able to ride your bike to the farmers market on Sat. or just hangout at one of the numerous restaurants, I know it was built in 1996, however, the HVAC was completely replaced in 2020, a brand new roof was installed in March of THIS YEAR! & the home has been completely remodeled, new kitchen, new flooring, new countertops, new primary & hall baths, additional can lighting as well as really cool pendant lighting in the kitchen & dining area, the corner lot is huge & private & the large Ficus tree is only available in a home of this age, this is a great home guys & worth your time to see, we definitely would if we were looking for a home!

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11064 E Reginald Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$554,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,112 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6718268

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This spacious and stunning home offers 3 bedrooms with 2 baths in the lovely Nova Vista neighborhood. Your family will love the large Bonus/Gaming Room close to the split bedrooms. The home offers a large kitchen that opens up to the family room and dining room making this great for entertaining! Enjoy the backyard under the covered patio, or out in the grass! Front and back yard are low maintenance with great appeal. It is located close to schools, shopping and easy access to Highway 202. Easy access, come see it today!

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16572 W Lincoln Street Goodyear, AZ 85338

$554,900

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,452 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6725169

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover this stunning 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath, 2-story home in a prime, strategic location. Boasting a massive 3,452 sqft of living space. This residence is filled with natural light, creating an airy, bright, and cozy atmosphere. The kitchen is a chef's dream with a double wall oven, granite countertops, and a spacious island. Step outside to the covered patio overlooking a private play pool, pavers, a charming gazebo, and a meticulously maintained backyard with trees and shrubs. Enjoy easy access to the 303 and I-10, and the convenience of being within walking distance to schools and abundant shopping. The community also features beautiful parks, perfect for outdoor activities!

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8448 E Cambridge Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85257

$554,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,020 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6726694

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WOW! This home has recently been remodeled by a licensed contractor. The home features new front half of roof, fresh paint, new flooring, and updated fixtures throughout. Walk in to a spacious living room filled with natural light. The kitchen has been completely redone with new white cabinets, quartz counter tops, stainless steel appliances, and new hardware. Both bedrooms boast new carpet, fresh paint, and new light fixtures. Both bathrooms have been updated with new vanities, counter tops, tiled showers, and fixtures. The backyard has a large covered patio and easy maintenance landscaping! No HOA!

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15971 N 91st Drive Peoria, AZ 85382

$554,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,310 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6739323

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful Single Level Home Located in Desired Arrowhead Horizons area. This home features, a Formal Living & Dining Room w/Vaulted Ceilings, Open Kitchen w/Breakfast Bar, Appliances Included & Eat-In Dining Room w/4 Bedroom, 2 Bath. Spacious Family Room, Master Bedroom w/Walk-In Closet, Master Bathroom w/Dual Sinks & Separate Tub & Shower, Split Floor Plan, Wood Shutters Throughout, Covered Backyard Patio, Sparkling Swimming Pool, 2 Car Garage, RV Gate w/RV PARKING, NO HOA. Walking Distance to Desert Harbor Elementary & Within minutes to Centennial High School. Close to Loop 101, Arrowhead Mall and the Phoenix Cardinals Stadium and much, much more

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2830 S Arroyo Court Chandler, AZ 85286

$554,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,833 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6740804

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautifully upgraded Clemente Ranch single-level home with bright and open floor plan. Large corner lot home located in a quiet cul-de-sac with 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. No carpet! Hardwood floor in rooms! Brand new Quartz counter in kitchen and bathrooms. Newly finished cabinets. Updated lighting. Open spacious kitchen with separate formal and family room. Spacious backyard has an RV gate, extended driveway, covered patio, flagstone, and pebble tec pool, and ample space for your garden and perfect for entertaining. It's close to Intel, Chandler Mall, Wells Fargo, freeways, Ocotillo Village, etc. Perfect family-friendly neighborhood for your client! Walking distance from 2 children's parks: Chuparusa and Dobson Park!

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11490 N 162nd Lane Surprise, AZ 85379

$554,900

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,695 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6741317

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to finer living in this beautifully appointed Shea Home. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and 3 car garage. Equipped with a junior on-suite on the main floor for multigenerational living. Enjoy the well designed high end kitchen with KitchenAid appliances, white quartz countertops, and deluxe high end cabinetry. Formal living and family rooms along with a flex space provides ample space for comfortable living. The upstairs laundry room is convenient next to the large secondary bedrooms and guest bath. Let's not forget the huge owner's suite with super shower and large walk in closet. Fresh turf in the back with a large paver patio make this backyard complete and ready for those sweet backyard gatherings. Check out the mountain view and the convenience to Prasada Shopping!

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21667 S 225th Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$554,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,832 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748269

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Motivated sellers here!!!!Sellers just replaced majority carpeting for tile!!!! This stunning 3-bedroom home with an office, separate tech center, and teen room features seller-owned solar installed in October 2021 for over $40k. Say goodbye to high summer electric bills without the hassle of a lease. Step inside to discover the modern elegance of wood plank tile flooring in the main living areas and baths, creating a warm and inviting ambiance throughout. The kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and ample storage space. The master suite is a very spacious and. complete with a luxurious ensuite bathroom featuring dual sinks, a soaking tub , and a separate shower. Two additional bedrooms offer plenty of space, while the office and tech center provide ideal spaces for remote work or study. Outside, the beautifully landscaped backyard is a tranquil retreat, featuring synthetic grass for easy maintenance and a covered patio for outdoor dining and relaxation. Why wait to build when you can move right into this almost new home? Don't miss out on this opportunity to own a home that is not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly and cost-effective. Come check this out today and make this energy-efficient oasis your own!

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7031 W Morrow Drive Glendale, AZ 85308

Open House

$554,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,800 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759901

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This 3-bedroom home with a blue pool in Arrowhead Ranch exudes charm and comfort! A grassy front yard, 2-car garage, brick veneer, and code entry box in the front door are just the beginning. Discover an open layout with all-new double-pane windows and doors, vaulted ceilings, sunny bay windows, and a two-way fireplace. The kitchen offers stainless steel appliances, plenty of honey oak cabinets, granite counters, and tile backsplash. The main bedroom features backyard access, a fireplace, and a lavish bathroom with a jetted tub, glass enclosure shower, dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. In the backyard, you'll find a swimming pool with a heater and chiller, green grass, two covered patios, and a pool house with a/c. Plus, the roof is only 3 years old! You won't be disappointed!

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6516 W Tonto Drive Glendale, AZ 85308

Open House

$554,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,865 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6724766

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Want a 4.25% - 4.99% interest rate and AFFORD this home? Seller to contribute to a 2-1 RATE BUY-DOWN! Only 5 mins from the new Phoenix Children's Hospital and 101 Fwy. This cute 4 bed/ 2 bath home has fresh interior neutral paint and new carpeting in all rooms, features vaulted ceilings, ample amount of cabinets for storage with tons of natural light with many windows! Island seating & an eat-in kitchen area for the open concept families like. Enjoy cozy evenings by the gas fireplace in the family room with natural plank wood flooring. Step outside to an extended covered patio overlooking a beautifully mature, tranquil landscaped backyard or the large front patio area. 2.5 car extended garage includes cabinets on both sides for plenty of organization. Walking distance to Dos Lagos Park. 2nd bathroom seller is offering a remodeling credit to convert the shower/tub if new buyer would like.

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21279 E Alyssa Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

Open House

$554,500

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,240 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6742196

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Now is your chance to have an amazing house at a GREAT price in Queen Creek, named the #1 BEST small city in AZ (by azcentral)! This 2240sf 4-bedroom home at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac offers TONS of upgrades, including a new AC w/ a 10yr warranty & maintenance plan, a water softener, reverse osmosis system, a lg walk-in master shower w/ 2 showerheads & much more. The lg open living area flows into a beautiful eat-in kitchen w/ SS appliances & formal dining. The inviting lush backyard oasis has a lg covered patio offering a misting system for those hot AZ days. Find your happy place amongst multiple trees & greenery, a flourishing garden, a cozy fire-pit, outdoor lighting, as well as an RV gate. The extended garage has a finished floor w/ extra storage, a MyQ camera/remote & MUCH MORE!

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