Rental price changing yearly?

Question

I live in a nice rental community. The rent seems to increase every year by about 25$. I am wondering if this is normal. The rent is already quite pricey and I've been here for about 2 yrs. so, I'm paying about 50$ more than what I signed up for. Do places normally raise the rent every year? Also, if I would like to move to another unit that is less in price do you think they will allow me?

Answer 1

I have never lived in an apartment where this DIDN'T happen.

Answer 2

Before you make any decisions, call the management office from a number they wouldn't recognize on caller ID.  Ask for an apartment the same size and features of yours.  If the rent they quote is the same as the rent you're paying, then the increase is normal for your area.

If not, then I would calmly talk to the manager and explain that you don't believe you're being treated fairly.  It's not uncommon for new residents to pay less rent than existing residents, but it's definitely not fair.  You may want to ask for a "renewal concession".  That's a discount or perk to get you to stay.  If your request is denied and the phone rent is the same, then you may want to consider paying the higher rent.  It usually means they're full and that translates into happy residents who don't want to move.

I have almost ten years managing apartments in Texas.

Answer 3

This is normal.    They have to give you a 30 day notice of the change so that you can move out if you no longer wish to live there.

A new unit would require a new contract, and new deposit.

Answer 4

This can be normal if the area is doing ok and rents are generally going up.  Of course feel free to look around for something nice thats maybe a bit cheaper, I mean they can raise the rent but you are under no obligation to stay there.  

I suspect they will allow you to move to another place if you ask them - just tell them if they don't you'll probably leave, then what reason would they have for not letting you move.