To: Harbor Row Apartments
Re: Lease renewal, [Unit number]

Thank you for your letter of October 5, 2026. I would like to stay and renew, and I am replying ahead of your November 1 deadline. I am asking you to reconsider the proposed rent of $1,540 a month, an increase of $145 (about 10.4%) over my current $1,395.

**My counteroffer**

1. A 12-month lease at $1,425 a month (an increase of $30, about 2.2%), or
2. An 18-month lease at $1,450 a month (an increase of $55, about 3.9%), running through June 30, 2028.

I understand option 1 is $1,380 less over the year than your proposal. The 18-month option is meant to offset that: it gives you a longer committed term at a higher rate and moves my renewal out of the winter season.

**Why I think this is reasonable**

- **Market.** A comparable one-bedroom two streets over is listed at $1,450. I recognize that is an asking price, not a signed lease, and I am glad to send you the listing. My point is that a 10.4% increase would put my rent well above what nearby units are advertised for.
- **Vacancy.** I have seen for-rent signs on two units in my building since August. I don't know their details, but it suggests the building is not filling units quickly at current asking rents.
- **Turnover.** I don't have your figures for vacancy, cleaning, and leasing costs, and you know them better than I do. I would only ask you to weigh them against the difference between our numbers.
- **History.** I have been a tenant for 4 years and have never paid late, which your records will confirm.

**Separately: the dishwasher**

My dishwasher has been broken since June. I reported it in writing twice and can send copies of those reports. I am not making the repair a condition of renewal, but I would appreciate having it fixed regardless of what we agree on rent.

I am ready to sign promptly once we agree on terms.

Sincerely,
[Your name]