Steve doesn’t just sign leases — he negotiates them. Every time.
After 12 apartments across multiple cities, he’s figured out how to get the best deal possible on rent. We talked to him about moving often, living with his co-founder, and the simple strategy that’s saved him more money than you’d expect.
You've lived in 12 different places as an adult. What has that journey looked like?
When I first graduated college, my preference was to rent a room in a house — that's what I did for about eight years. It was cheaper. But as I developed in my career, I felt a lot better about renting an actual apartment: The amenities, having a gym, and proximity to things I enjoy.
Eventually I moved to San Diego, lived in a nicer apartment, and ever since then, almost every year, I've lived in a new place.
After all of that, what have you learned from moving so much?
Rents are negotiable, but you don't want to negotiate on price. You want to negotiate on incentives. Apartments care about meeting the listed rent price. What they're more flexible on is things like free weeks, move-in incentives, parking fees. They'll give you a month off before they'll lower the rent.
When I was in Austin, my building had a four-week move-in incentive. I was able to negotiate it up to six, just by doing comparables.
Apartment List Tip: "Comparables" (or "comps") are similar apartments in the same area that renters and landlords use to gauge pricing — think units with a similar size, location, and features.
What's the key to actually making that ask?
Two things. Make sure you seem like a very good tenant, and feel gettable. Don't be aloof — make it clear you really want to move in, you want to make this work, but you really need this one last thing. Then you're ready to go. The worst that can happen is they say no.
So where did all of this land you?
I live in a building in South San Francisco. Two bed, two bath, about 1,200 square feet. I share it with a friend of mine. It has a gym, it's close to Caltrain, close to the downtown area of South SF, and walkable to a number of restaurants that are quite good.
How did you end up there?
My friend is my co-founder, and he was moving back to the Bay. We were working on our latest business together, so we decided to move in together to accelerate that work. The decision to come here was more just an overlapping of preferences. We toured about six other apartments along the peninsula, and this one stood out. I didn't know I wanted to be in South San Francisco specifically. That came out of doing the exploration and driving around.
What were your non-negotiables?
In-unit laundry, a nice gym, approximate location, and near good food options. Those are some must-haves — and they didn't really change.
What's your favorite thing about your apartment now?
Honestly, it's the location. I can walk to get a burrito, Vietnamese food, Japanese food. It's close to the gym I attend regularly. And there's Caltrain, BART, and SFO right down the road. I find myself traveling very easily.
Any trade-offs?
My last apartment in Oakland had a rooftop saltwater pool. That was a pretty great setup. But the opportunity to work closely with my friend and co-founder was just too compelling.
Do you see yourself staying put for a while?
Yeah, I'm pretty happy where I am. They're raising rent about 5% this year, which I think is fine. I could stay here, or I could end up renting a house again with people — I haven't made that decision. It's a pretty no-lose situation either way.
Steve’s moved 12 times, but you don’t have to. His takeaway is simple: you have more leverage than you think. By focusing on incentives, doing your research, and positioning yourself as an easy “yes,” you can land a place that works for your life and your budget.
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, 24hr maintenance, Stainless steel, Walk in closets + more
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Pet friendly, Parking, Stainless steel, Walk in closets + more
