Cory Boatright, Loss Mitigation Specialist, provides 3 quick examples of terms in the lease you can totally negotiate in your favor. You’ll need to be sure what you’re asking for is legal, but definitely try to get what you want.

1) Financial changes: One example would be the security deposit. Don’t lay out 2 month’s rent all in one shot if it’s not something you’re comfortable with. Pay one month, and then make 3 or more payments towards the other half. It’ll make the transition easier for you and give you time to feel comfortable with your decision.

2) Lease Length: Don’t be pushed into a 12-month lease if that’s not where life is taking you. You shouldn’t be afraid to speak up and point out that 6 months, or even month to month, make more sense for your situation. If the owner is edgy, you can offer to pay slightly more per month for a shorter period, or make the penalty for breaking almost nothing.

3) Concessions: You might feel like you’ve given up on the benefits of ownership and not gotten much in return. But it doesn’t need to be like that. You can demand some concessions from your owner such as free parking in a secure lot or 1 month free for a longer lease. If you’re debating between two buildings, be sure to let each owner know what the other is offering. Remember, they also want you!

These are just three quick examples of things you can negotiate when looking to sign a lease. You may be renting, but your money’s as good as anyone else’s and you deserve to get everything you need.

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