Where most industries use the term coupon, in apartments the term concession is used.
A rent concession is a discount or adjustment made to rent, security deposit, or other fees typically due and owed to the landlord.
For example, a $500 concession, usually means you get to pay $500 less on your rent.
Instances When a Landlord May Offer Rent Concession
Landlords may offer a rent concession to tenants when:
- There are several vacant units and the landlord needs to occupy them quickly
- If there is something inherently less appealing about the apartment unit, such as overlooking noisy highway
Examples of Rent Concessions
Rent concessions can either be a reduction in costs or a tangible incentive. Here are some of the most common types of rent concessions, although there could be many others:
- 1 or 2 Month’s Free Rent
- $500 Concession
- $1,000 Concession
- Reduced Security Deposit
- Reduced or Eliminated Amin or Amenity Fees
- Free Parking
- Complimentary Wi-Fi.
- Free access to certain clubs and amenities.
Benefit of a Rent Concession?
The biggest reason why landlords offer rent concessions is to reduce the amount of time the apartment or unit sits vacant. However, concessions of course help you as the renter as well.
How is a Rent Concession Calculated?
As a renter, you first find out what the rent concession value is (i.e. $500), and then find out the terms for applying. Sometimes landlords will let you apply the concession all at once off 1st months rent, but other times it is deducted throughout the course of the 12 month lease (year). If it is deducted throughout the course of the year, take the total dollar value/12 to find out how much you can deduct off each month’s rent.
What is a one time concession?
A one time concession is a discount that you will get one time (typically up front) and then you will have to resume paying normal rent. For example, if you a $500 one-time concession and your rent is typically $2,000/month, then you can presumably pay $1,5000 on month 1, and then on month 2,3,4, etc. you will have to pay the full $2,000/month.
What is a rental concession addendum?
A rental concession addendum is often an attachment or extra page(s) to a lease that stipulates the discount or concession you were offered. It might also spell out the terms for when/if you need to pay back the concession, such as if you breach your lease.
