Before you renew your lease! Take the time to make a few special requests. Get new carpeting! And, don't allow them to increase your rent. Now is not the time for rent increases. A friend of mine moved from Philadelphia to GA. His rent was outrageous in Philly. The management office charged him the same rates in GA as in PA. That's ridiculous! He was paying $1400 for a 3 bedroom apartment in GA. Don't be fooled. I went to his neighborhood and talked with the neighbors. Some were paying as little as $900 for the same 3 bedroom! He didn't do his homework. Make sure you do yours!