Landlords—the superhero villains of the rental universe. While they’re supposed to offer decent housing and fix things that break, more often than not, renters end up feeling more like hostages than tenants. Oh, and let’s not even get started about the skyrocketing rents!
Consider this: one poor soul online discovered that their landlord had been secretly overcharging them by thousands. Another rented out their apartment only to find their belongings magically disappeared, thanks to their lovely landlord. And let’s not forget the horror stories where folks endure nightmare landlords while their rental rates keep climbing year over year—at an average of 5–15%, mind you!
Feeling helpless when your landlord demands more money? Well, think again! A savvy TikTok user named Moriah has swooped in with some insider tips that might just save your wallet from doom.
How to Combat Rent Hikes Like a Pro
This isn’t just another TikTok hack to roll your eyes at. Nope! Moriah (@moriahhmichelle) brings the goods in a video that’s racked up over 1.1 million views. Her secret? Going straight to the property manager—essentially, the decision-maker who holds the golden key to those darn rent prices.
If you thought the leasing consultant was your only point of contact, think again. As Moriah clearly states, “If you are renewing your lease and they’re raising your rent by $200 or $300, they also have the ability to bring your rent down.”
According to Moriah, the property manager is like a wizard with a magic screen showing all the available rates and how much they can adjust them. They could look at your $1,750 renewal rent, look at their screen, see a magical $150 adjustment box, and poof! Your rent goes down to $1,600. Sound too good to be true? Think again!
Talking to Your Property Manager Without Losing Your Cool
Ready to push back? Moriah offers a masterclass in negotiating rent. Step one: do your homework. Compare rental rates for similar apartments within a 5–10-mile radius. Your mission? Find better deals that can be used as leverage.
When you’ve got your ammunition (those juicy lower rates), set up a chat with your property manager. Moriah advises, you don’t need to beg or plead poverty. Simply state, “Hey, I’m not comfortable paying this much of an increase, and this is what your competitor is offering. I would rather take that offer versus staying here.”
Why should they care, you ask? Turns out, property managers love their bonuses and occupancy targets. They’ll likely prefer a tenant who stays and pays over an empty unit.
What if they don’t budge? Be ready to walk. Moriah insists you don’t have to accept the first offer thrown at you like a rubber bone.
Wisdom from the Renter’s Crowd
This strategy has resonated with many who’ve faced the rental beast head-on. Some rental managers even chimed in, offering extra tips like asking for renovations if they won’t drop the rent. Others suggested taking it up with corporate if the local property manager plays hardball.
One user shared, “I did this this year. They increased my rent $30 and approved me for a two-year lease. I’ve been in my apartment for 8 years. Easiest process ever.”
So there you have it, comrades in rent! Next time your landlord tries to squeeze more cash out of you, remember these tips. And above all, always be prepared to challenge and negotiate. Who knew TikTok could be this practical?
