Learn effective strategies for landlords facing difficulties in filling apartment vacancies. Find out how to negotiate rent deals and attract tenants in a competitive market.
How to Get Your Next Place 50% Cheaper
Finding affordable housing has become a significant challenge, especially in bustling metropolitan areas such as Los Angeles. With the cost of living continually on the rise, many individuals are searching for ways to cut their housing expenses. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment in LA can cost as much as $2000 a month. However, with strategic approaches such as co-living, you may be able to secure a place for around $1000, effectively
slashing your living expenses by half. This article will explore where to find affordable apartment offers and how to negotiate better housing deals through a variety of means, including landlord negotiations, finding roommates, and co-living arrangements.
Where You Can Find Cheap Apartment Offers
1. Redfin
Redfin is a real estate brokerage website and app that provides an extensive listing of available properties for sale and rent, including affordable apartments. The platform is user-friendly and allows potential renters to filter search results by price, location, number of bedrooms, and other important features. Redfin also provides valuable insights into neighborhood trends and property values, which can help you determine where the best affordable housing deals can be found.
2. Zillow
Another popular online real estate database is Zillow, which hosts a myriad of listings for rental properties. Zillow's platform includes a "Rental Manager" feature that helps landlords list their properties, which in turn provides potential tenants with a wide array of rental options. By using the price filter and searching for specific areas, users can find apartments that fit their budget. Additionally, Zillow offers a "Zestimate" of rental prices, giving you a ballpark figure of what you can expect to pay in a certain neighborhood.
3. Craigslist
Craigslist remains a classic go-to for finding affordable housing. The website’s straightforward classifieds format allows individuals to search for housing based on their desired city and neighborhood. Many landlords and property managers use Craigslist to advertise their rental units because it's free and has a large audience. However, caution is advised when using Craigslist, as it is also known for scams. Always verify the legitimacy of the listing and never exchange money before seeing the apartment in person.
4. Local Bulletin Boards and Community Groups
Don’t underestimate the power of local bulletin boards and community groups, whether online or in physical locations like coffee shops or community centers. Often, exclusive deals or lesser-known rental opportunities can be found through these channels. Additionally, joining local Facebook groups or forums dedicated to housing in your city can lead to private rental listings not found on major platforms.
How You Can Get a Better Deal
1. Negotiate with Landlords
When you do find an apartment that suits your needs but is slightly out of your price range, consider negotiating with the landlord. In some cases, landlords prefer having a reliable tenant for a lower price than having their property vacant for an extended period. When negotiating, be respectful, and present valid arguments as to why a lower rent is justified. This could include committing to a longer lease term, offering to pay a few months upfront, or bringing up comparable rental prices in the area.
2. Find a Roommate
Splitting the cost of an apartment with a roommate can significantly reduce your individual living expenses. Not only can you afford a larger space together, but you’ll also share the cost of utilities, internet, and other household expenses. Finding a roommate has been made more accessible with websites like Roommates.com or even social media platforms where you can connect with people looking for shared housing.
3. Co-living
Co-living is a modern take on communal living, where individuals rent private bedrooms in a furnished shared house or apartment with common areas such as kitchens and living rooms. Co-living often includes utilities and cleaning services in the rent, and leases can be more flexible, with terms as short as a month. This can be an ideal option for those who value community and want to significantly reduce their living costs. Companies like Common and WeLive offer co-living spaces in major cities and are worth exploring for affordable housing options.
While the cost of housing continues to be a concern, there are still ways to find affordable living spaces. By utilizing online platforms such as Redfin, Zillow, and Craigslist, and engaging in community resources, you can uncover hidden gems in the rental market. Moreover, honing your negotiation skills, finding roommates, and considering co-living arrangements can cut your housing costs by as much as 50%. With the right approach and a bit of persistence, securing your next apartment at a much cheaper price point is entirely within reach.