PadreBrian, I too live at Archstone for 4 years or so, and have dealt with big rental increases in some years, not so much in other years. They now have their rates published (at http://www.archstone.com). Here’s what I’ve been advised by the staff. Look at the prices and wait until the end of the week and end of the month. That’s when prices are lowest. Also, an 11-month term might be far cheaper than a year-lease.

That said, I think I overpay for my SMALL (621 square foot place). If they increase it much more, it will be too ridiculous to justify. But I currently pay less than what I’d pay to rent a condo or home in this area. The size is starting to drive me crazy, but oddly enough, I just did a rent-versus-own calculation – online and on my own – on a home I could afford, but would be happy with it too. And it wasn’t even comparable right now.

But I’m sacrificing some happiness now, for bigger happiness later. Kind of like a happiness investment. Don’t ask me for the ROI of this investment type, as I’m not too sure what the formula is. I’m sure the Piggs could figure it out, though, and post a big spreadsheet showing breakeven points, various trends, and other nerdy data that I find absolutely ridiculous… and personally spend hours at a time staring at.