This article deals with rentals, another article will talk about mortgages.

First a disclaimer: There is no magical technique that can turn a £1200-per-month apartment into a £1000-per-month apartment. You can’t reduce the rental cost of an existing contract. I wish it weren’t so, because it’s typically the biggest single item we pay for each month, but once you’ve signed the lease, you’re locked in.

That lease, however, expires at some point, and then you’ll be faced with a decision. To move or stay, to accept a proposed increase or reject it. To try to renegotiate or to sign without making a fuss.