First Responder Discounts and Teacher Discounts at Apartments
You may not know that many apartment complexes offer first responder discounts and teacher discounts. Though the leasing agent may mention them in passing, you may not remember this detail among all the other information you hear. That's why it's a good idea to use a locator.
Bart Shirley
5/21/20262 min read
Not all jobs are created equal. In a previous life, I was a high school teacher, and that job was definitely tougher than this one.
What I didn't know is that I might have missed out on getting a rent discount where I was living. As it turns out, many apartments offer discounts to teachers, police officers, firefighters, and paramedics who choose to lease.
In fact, unlike most move-in specials or look-and-lease deals, these discounts may be permanent features of the lease agreements you sign. So, you'll always be able to get a slight reduction on your rent, regardless of how many leases you sign.
How much of a discount?
It varies from complex to complex. In general, the discount is around 5% off your monthly rent.
However, it doesn't really matter how much it is. It costs you nothing to ask about and receive, so any improvement is worthwhile. As I often say, better is always better.
Do I have to prove it?
You may be wondering if it is sufficient to tell the leasing agent that you have one of these roles when you lease. The short answer is that it depends - but you'll probably have to furnish a bit more proof.
However, you're certain to divulge your place of business or occupation when you sign up for a lease. Part of the complex's due diligence on your lease application is to confirm your employment and employer. So, it's unlikely to be a problem.
Do all complexes offer discounts to teachers and first responders?
No. Many of them do, but it's not a universal policy or the law that you receive a perk for your service.
That said, there's nothing wrong with letting the presence or absence of a discount help guide you to a decision. Simply put, if all else is equal, a lower rent is a good thing.
What if I'm in the military?
If a complex offers a discount for first responders and teachers, it is likely that a similar arrangement exists for active military members. So, if you serve the country, you're probably able to get a deal when you lease a new apartment.
With that said, you probably won't be able to get the same discounts if you're a veteran or a retired military member. As is the case if first responders and teachers retire or resign, those benefits cease once you've moved onto a different job.
Are rent discounts the only perks I can get?
Not necessarily. Many apartment complexes - even those that don't offer rent discounts - may waive administrative and application fees for first responders, teachers, and military members.
Additionally, even if apartments do not have permanent rent discounts for special workers, they may offer look-and-lease or move-in specials that other applicants cannot enjoy. So, it's always a good idea to see if there are any benefits or discounts offered when you tour a property.
How does having a locator help?
Forgive me for a bit of self-promotion here. However, you may be wondering how having an apartment locator in your corner would help you get these promotions.
Simply put, it is an easy thing to forget with all the things on your mind. Moving is stressful and complex, and things can get missed.
I don't have those things on my mind. I won't forget. So, if you've serve our country, our state, or our city, let me make sure you get the appreciation you deserve.
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Bart Shirley is a licensed real estate agent (#843214) in the State of Texas. He is an affiliate of C. R. Realty of Katy, Texas, and sponsored by broker Charles Ray (#498579). All commissions earned by aBARTments.com and Bart Shirley are to be issued to C. R. Realty, not Bart Shirley.
C. R. Realty is located at 5604 1st Street #101, Katy, Texas 77493. The office phone number is (832)646-0512.