Raise your hand if the biggest expense on your monthly budget sheet is rent.
Yup, you and everyone else.
Weve done this before, so we know what questions to ask.
How much should I expect to pay in utilities?
Wheres the closest grocery store?
Whats the crime rate?
But is it okay to ask if theprice is negotiable?
Always be sure to mention your profession to your landlord.
Do you have special skills like bookkeeping?
Offer to keep track of your landlords finances.
Plumbers, electricians and other tradespeople should offer their expertise as well.
Why should the landlord outsource this work to other businesses when you live right there?
Probably not as good as youd like.
It always seems like an uphill battle to build (and keep) a decent amount in savings.
But what if your car breaks down, or you have a sudden medical bill?
Ask one of these companies to help…
2.
Perhaps you could teach a fitness class onsite or offer your time as a babysitter for residents.
In pet-friendly communities, offer towalk dogs.
BuildSweat Equity
Getting your hands dirty could net you a solid return on your investment of time and effort.
Offer to maintain the yard and landscaping or to keep up with painting the property.
Ask About Odd Jobs
Is there a part-time office gig available?
Offer to sort mail, vacuum the carpets or even tidy up the fitness room.
Apartment complexes love to hire residents because who knows the property better than you?
Did you know?
Asking about current or upcoming specials can reduce or eliminate your upfront costs.
If any of these situations apply to you, check whether your landlord offers reduced rent.
Never be afraid to ask.
Everyone, including your landlord, is looking for a way to save money.
Trading your skills or time for reduced rent could help make that monthly payment just a little less painful.
(Like this idea?Click to tweet it).
Your Turn: Have you traded your time or skills for reduced rent?
She blogs about her adventures, job hunt, and inspirations at Entirely-Erica.com.
(Can you sense my millennial sarcasm there?)
You know which ones were talking about: rent, utilities, cell phone bill, insurance, groceries…
