Lease renewal came in. $400 more per month. Same unit. Same busted dishwasher I reported 6 months ago. Same stain on the ceiling from the upstairs leak they "fixed" twice.
I asked what justified the increase. They said "market rates." Cool. So the market rate for a unit with a broken garbage disposal and carpet from 2009 is now $1,800?
I know I can leave but moving costs are easily $3-4K between deposits, movers, and time off work. They know that too. That's the trap.
Anyone successfully negotiated their renewal down?
Texas has basically zero rent control and no statewide cap on increases. Your only leverage is threatening to leave. And honestly? Sometimes you have to follow through.