I would really like to know why everyone else isn't on the ball like myself. I have continued to look for places to live, and I think that I have visited about 10-13 total. I have narrowed it down to perhaps one place. I am returning there tomorrow to test out my negotiation skills.

I want to live in a brand new shiny apartment. My mother did tell me on the phone that she was proud of me. I asked her it was because I was going to be broke. It seems that the economy has not done much to affect the rising cost of RENT. For a 922 sq foot 1 bedroom + den I am looking at about 1600 -1700 per month. I believe this is more than my parents mortgage. They have two incomes, and I have one. True story.

Here is how I have rationalized the increased cost. Moving 4 miles closer to work in this lovely metropolitan area will save me approximately $80 - 100 per month. Additionally, it's a brand new place so I will save $40+ on my electric bill due to the new HVAC unit and new windows. Additionally I will be able to open my windows a lot more due to the fact that there is concrete floors in between each floor. This minimizes the noise factor.

So I am going to go back tomorrow, and see if I can negotiate a bit. It's a new community and they are not fully leased so I may throw them a few curve balls, like if I sign a 15 month lease will you lower the rent a bit per month? I also want them to throw in the parking for free. I am greedy what can I say.

So I am pretty excited, we'll see what happens. I shall keep you posted.

Happy Monday. NOT