As a tenant rep I have to take a pretty hard line on landlords to ensure my clients get a good deal and that the “benefit of the bargain” is properly documented in the lease. But it is important to note that the relationship between the landlord and tenant is a long term one, and nurturing that relationship from the outset is important.
Although I believe in the credo that, “the customer is always right,” and that landlords should bend over backwards to keep there tenants happy, the reality is that property and asset managers have multiple tenants making daily demands and they can only do so much. So don”t forget that “you can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar.” Quite simply, landlords will be more apt to help you if you are flattering and polite to them.
Of course, there is another motto I believe in that says, “You don’t get what you deserve, you get what you negotiate.” It is very helpful to have a skillfully negotiated bundle of rights in your lease to refer to when you are “loving your landlord.” A well negotiated lease is actually the foundation for a good relationship with your landlord.