subject: Tips To Negotiate That Limited-term Lease [print this page] A short-term lease is usually one that has a duration of about six months, but will generally cover any rental agreement that is shorter than twelve months. Cases where people would want to rent short term include those who are on a long term vacation and prefer to stay in an apartment or house instead of hotel, companies renting for their expatriate employees, or people who are in the process selling and buying their houses.
Usually, short-term leases are not very popular with property-owners. The major disincentive is that short-term lease do not provide a stable and secure income for long periods of time, but also, they create more work as the landlord has to vet potential tenants more often and may end up having an empty place more often. Short-term leases end up taking more of a landlord's time.
This is why in short-term leases, landlords have more bargaining power and prospective tenants will have to bargain harder or accept the trade offs such as a higher monthly rent, many restrictions on deposit return, and other additional fees.
To do this effectively, you should take a few things in mind. Always remember that a location with higher vacancy rates means more bargaining flexibility. You can use this as a reason for the landlord to negotiate.
In order to really get the landlord to bend to your will, explain to him or her that you can move in immediately, and that you will provide him or her with two months of rent immediately. This will certainly make the landlord more flexibility in terms of monthly rent.
Another good tactic is to rent the apartment in its current condition. Meaning, you will do all the cleaning and fix any appliances that need to be fixed.
Remember to negotiate not just on rent but also to have the same amenities as long-term renters. These could include even the basics, such as heating, water, and garbage disposal.
Having a letter of recommendation from your previous landlord, as well as proof of being a good credit risk will also work in your favor.
