Business
How to Effectively Negotiate Lower Rent
With rental costs skyrocketing across the nation, many tenants are struggling to keep housing expenses manageable. One strategy to combat rising rents is to negotiate directly with your landlord for a lower rate. While there are no guarantees, taking the right approach can significantly increase your chances of a successful negotiation.
Do Your Homework
Before approaching your landlord, research rental prices for comparable units in your area. Check listing sites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Apartments.com to find the average going rates. Make sure you account for factors like square footage, number of bedrooms/bathrooms, amenities, and location to ensure you’re making an apples-to-apples comparison. Having data that shows your current rent is above market can strengthen your negotiating position.
Highlight Your Value as a Tenant
If you’ve been a reliable, long-term tenant who pays rent on time and keeps the property in good condition, be sure to emphasize this track record to your landlord. Good tenants reduce turnover costs and headaches, so landlords have incentives to keep them at a discounted rate. Provide proof of your positive payment history and the care you’ve taken with the unit.
Offer Incentives
To make your proposal more enticing, consider offering incentives that benefit the landlord. For example, you could propose extending your lease term from 1 year to 2 years in exchange for a lower monthly rate. This guarantees steady income for the landlord over a longer period. If you can afford it, offering to pre-pay several months of rent upfront in a lump sum can also motivate a landlord to accept a reduced rate.
Suggest Trade-Offs
Another negotiating tactic is to propose giving up certain amenities you don’t need in exchange for lower rent. For example, you could forfeit a parking space, storage unit, or other extras. Or, you could offer to take over maintenance tasks like yard work or cleaning common areas to offset costs for the landlord.
Use the Right Approach
When actually making the request, be polite but firm. A sample negotiation script could be:
“I’ve been a tenant here for X years, and have always paid rent on time and kept the unit in great shape. Based on my research of comparable rentals in this area, the current rate of $X seems above market, especially considering [detail any lacking amenities]. I’m hoping we could agree on a new rate of $X, which is more in line with the going prices. I’d be happy to sign an extended lease or pre-pay several months to make this arrangement work.”
Time It Right
The negotiation timing can also be important. Generally, try to initiate conversations before your lease renewal when the landlord may be more motivated to retain you as a tenant. Additionally, winter months when rental demand is lower could make landlords more amenable to negotiating.
With preparation, professionalism, and reasonable requests, many tenants can successfully negotiate lower rent and achieve housing costs that better fit their budgets. It’s a strategy worth pursuing in today’s challenging rental market.
Registration Code: BOLANLEVIP
Stay Connected
Author: Bolanle Media Staff
- Powerful keynotes from influential leaders who will ignite your spirit and inspire your soul
- Moving tributes to pioneers who paved the way, leaving a lasting legacy of hope and resilience
- Exclusive networking opportunities with over 500 attendees, including community leaders, business executives, and elected officials
- Live music and entertainment that will keep you energized and uplifted throughout the night
- Awards ceremony recognizing outstanding contributions, achievements, and service to the community
Registration Code: BolanleVIP
- Connect with like-minded individuals and leaders who share your passion for excellence
- Be inspired by remarkable stories of success, perseverance, and triumph
- Celebrate the rich history and culture of African American leadership in Michigan, and its impact on our communities
- Take part in an event that will leave a lasting impact on your life, your community, and your legacy
Author: Bolanle Media Staff
In a significant move to revitalize a nearly two-century-old connection, President of Liberia, Joseph Nyumah Boakai, and his cabinet members met with key Fulton County officials on Wednesday, August 21st. This historic meeting was made possible due to the efforts of Aaron Faulkner, film director, and Dr. Clarice Ford-Kulah, President of Providence Preservation Foundation Inc., who played a crucial role in facilitating the discussion. Dr. Ford-Kulah and her team were instrumental in bringing everyone together, and she will be orchestrating the return visit in December of the Fulton County delegation. The meeting, which took place in Atlanta, Georgia, focused on potential partnerships aimed at addressing Liberia’s current challenges and marked a significant step towards strengthening the historic ties between Liberia and Fulton County.
President Joseph Nyumah Boakai met privately with Fulton County officials to discuss strengthening historic ties and exploring new collaborations between Liberia and Fulton County, Georgia.
The relationship between Liberia and Fulton County dates back to the early 19th century when freed African Americans, many from Georgia, settled in Liberia. This connection has endured for nearly two centuries, creating a unique bond between the two regions.
High-profile figures, including the President of Liberia, members of his cabinet, Chief Probate Judge Kenya Johnson of Fulton County, and Fulton County Chairman Robb Pitts, attended the meeting. The discussions focused on exploring ways to strengthen economic ties, foster educational and cultural exchanges, and address healthcare challenges in Liberia.
President Joseph Nyumah Boakai met privately with Fulton County officials to discuss strengthening historic ties and exploring new collaborations between Liberia and Fulton County, Georgia.
Potential areas of collaboration include trade partnerships, investment opportunities in Liberian infrastructure, technology transfer programs, scholarship programs for Liberian students, cultural exhibitions, medical training programs, and telemedicine partnerships.
Chief Probate Judge Kenya Johnson provided insight into the historical ties between Fulton County and Liberia, referencing documents from the Fulton County Probate Court that shed light on the complex history of slavery and emancipation in the region.
Chairman Robb Pitts emphasized the potential for mutual benefit in this partnership, stating, “By leveraging our shared history and combining our resources, we can create meaningful change and opportunities for both Liberia and Fulton County.”
President Joseph Nyumah Boakai standing next to Her Royal Majesty Shanta Lana Hereford, Warrior Queen of The Cherut Nation.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue dialogue and develop concrete action plans for collaboration. Both parties expressed optimism about the potential for this partnership to address pressing issues in Liberia while strengthening the bonds between the two regions.
This historic meeting marks a significant step towards revitalizing the connection between Liberia and Fulton County, with the potential to create meaningful change and opportunities for both regions.
- Follow us on social media for the latest news and updates on this partnership
- Sign up for our newsletter to receive exclusive insights and information on how to get involved
- Contact us to learn more about how you can contribute to this historic partnership
- Share your ideas and suggestions on how to strengthen the ties between Liberia and Fulton County
Author: Bolanle Media Staff
A series of events took place to mark the establishment of a new nation, Cherut. These events brought together various individuals and groups, including leaders, advocates, and cultural figures, who share a common goal of self-determination and empowerment.
Her Majesty Shanta Lana Hereford of The Ishola Empire, Princess, Empress Myishola Matthews of the Inosa Nation
Sunday Evening: A Gathering at the Hilton Hotel
On Sunday evening, an exclusive gathering took place at the Hilton Atlanta Hotel, attended by royal members of The Ishola Empire and the newly formed Nation of Cherut that included other notable figures, including:
- Dr. Peter W. Sherill: A renowned political scientist and advocate for electoral reform. Dr. Sherill has dedicated his career to promoting fair representation and equal political access.
- Dr. Cheryldene Cook,
- Mr. Harold James, owner of Vocal Leaf Tea and event sponsor.
Monday to Thursday: Workshops at INOSA
A series of workshops were held from Monday to Thursday at the Kemet Club in East Point, Georgia, to draft the charter for the Indigenous Nations of Sovereignty Alliance (INOSA). Participants engaged in collaborative discussions to form an organization that advocates for Indigenous nations, tribes, and kingdoms across the global Black diaspora.
Wednesday: A Bus Tour and Press Conference
On Wednesday, Empress Myishola Matthews, The Oba Binrin of The Ishola Empire, a visionary leader and cultural icon, joined the 124th National Black Business Conference for a bus tour of Tuskegee and a press conference, celebrating the legacy of Black excellence. Meanwhile, the newly appointed Queen Her Majesty Shanta Lana Hereford, a rising leader and advocate for political engagement, sat in to witness a private and historical meeting arranged by Aaron Faulkner and Dr. Clarice Ford Kulah between the President of the Republic of Liberia, his cabinet, Chief Probate Judge Kenya Johnson, and Fulton County Chairman Robb Pitts to discuss the long history and relationship between Liberia and Fulton County and how they can work together to help Liberia with some of its pressing issues through partnership and investment.
Her Majesty Shanta Lana Hereford of The Ishola Empire and Founder of Center of Truth and Healing with a fellow community member.
Thursday Evening: A Reception and Fashion Show
On Thursday evening, a grand reception was held at The Hilton Atlanta Hotel for the 124th National Black Business Conference, while simultaneously the Birth of a New Nation Diaspora by Design Fashion Show at the Atrium Performing Arts Center in Stone Mountain GA was taking flight. The fashion show featured designs from various creators, including:
- Vanessa Henderson from Van Miller International: A celebrated fashion designer known for her innovative and culturally inspired styles.
- Sequoia: A rising star in the fashion world, celebrated for designs that honor African heritage and ethnic diversity.
- Emmy Wu: A talented young designer making a name for herself in the fashion industry.
The evening was further electrified by performances from celebrated artists, including:
- Sara LeRose: A gifted singer and songwriter known for her powerful voice and uplifting lyrics.
- Desmond Champion: A renowned musician and composer celebrated for his contributions to the music industry.
- Hustle Jamez: A dynamic performer and entertainer who brought energy and excitement to the stage.
- Somalia
Author: Bolanle Media Staff
Entertainment3 days ago“Her Corpse”: A Darkly Hilarious Take on True Crime
- Entertainment1 week ago
“Another Night at Beaver’s”: A Wild Fiery Story of an Apocalypse
- Entertainment3 weeks ago
“Summer’s Holes”: Teenage Turmoil
- Entertainment3 weeks ago
“MIC CHECK; KARAOKE LOVE”: A Story of Music, Love & Cultural Connection
- Entertainment4 weeks ago
Tom Renville’s Breakout Moment: ‘Ramp Rats’ Takes Flight
- Entertainment3 weeks ago
“Mutt”: A Story of Identity, Belonging, and Laughter
- Entertainment3 weeks ago
“Happy Landing”: A Story of Humor in Aging
- Entertainment4 weeks ago
Murder, Mystery, and Mayhem at Madame Pearl’s
