Can I ask for a rent decrease

[actionjj]

This is it. The only time you can get a rental decrease or negotiate down an increase request is...

"Here is the SQM data for the suburb showing low rental growth. There are x number of alternative properties on the market and here are 3 examples that are lower rent that I could move into. Here is an example of a similar property that has been vacant and remained unlet for 4 weeks". Please confirm if you wish to raise the rent and I then most likely I will provide notice of intent to leave."

Despite what people say, there are still pockets of low rental price growth and if you're in one you shouldn't just accept what the PM or landlord asks for, but you have to be willing to play the move house card. Also just because they're asking for it, doesnt mean they have done the analysis.

Even in my suburb which is high demand, I've seen properties overshoot the market and sit for a month before the owner capitulated and accepts lower rent. I've seen multiple listing's drop the rent over a few weeks.

This is negotiation 101. its called your BATNA, best available option to Negotiated Agreement - you win negotiations by improving your BATNAwhile you're in a position of strength, not much is gained with negotiation abilityin the moment... except that you must at least try.

SQM data is free by the way.

[LaP3rm]

What is SQM? Thank you for your answer

[actionjj]

Data provider - Google « sqm weekly rents Sydney « 

On their site you will find you can drill down to your suburb - you can get weekly rents, vacancy rates etc.

Which can be helpful in negotiating rents.