Summarize:

Property owners will sometimes offer a little wiggle room on the price in order to fill open units. After touring a listing, act like you're interested but aren't sure you can come up with what they're asking. If you're lucky, you may be able to convince them to reduce the rate by a couple hundred dollars.  Suggest a specific amount by using phrases like "$1,900 is a little steep for me, but I could make $1,750 work." Try splitting the difference to land a better bargain. If an apartment is going for $2,200 and your target price is $2,000, they'll be more likely to meet you in the middle if you offer $1,800.  Even if your negotiation attempts don't pay off, they're worth a shot if it means saving you expenses. You won't always be able to talk the seller down. Just because they refuse to budge, however, doesn't mean you shouldn't take the offer, especially if it's in a good location, has all the features you need and is available immediately. More often than not, you should be prepared to pay what's being asked and not a penny less.  In some cases, market values may even continue to go up over time as demand for housing in the area increases. Think twice before dismissing a property that's only a few hundred dollars more than what you're looking to spend. Being stubborn will only cause you to end up without a place to live. If you're worried that you might not be able to afford the full rent on your own, consider moving in with a roommate to help you subsidize the cost of living. By sharing the financial responsibility with another person, you stand to cut your expenses in half, which can be a huge relief when it comes to living comfortably.  Interview potential roommates beforehand to determine whether or not you think the arrangement would work. Make sure your roommate(s) is also financially secure and has the proper documentation to move forward on a lease right away. Most people tend to move in the summer. As a result, this is when list prices will be highest. Waiting until the slow season when demand drops off is surefire way to score a more attractive offer. If you can hold out until the winter months, your patience will be rewarded with lower rates.  Start browsing new accommodations as early as May or June to get ahead of the game. One downside of waiting until winter to search for an apartment is that turnover is typically lower, which means fewer properties will be available.
Try haggling for a discount. Be willing to settle on the list price. Find a roommate. Schedule your search for the end of the year.