Rent levels in the neighborhood?

Hi all,

I've lived in the neighborhood since 2002, in the same building, and I'm curious about what is the current rent levels are?

Before I renew my lease in a rent-stabilized apt, I really want to know if I have any negotiating room.

Specs:

estimated 600 sq ft; mini dishwasher recently installed; old gas stove; kitchen & bathroom not recently renovated; parquet floors throughout.

Fourth floor with lots of windows; in 16 unit building closest to the Clinton Washington C stop, but also near C Franklin & G Classon. No washer/dryer in unit or building.

Hot water & heat included.

Some suggestions:

Rent-O-Meter

http://www.rentometer.com/

And check craigslist ads for rentals around your block to compare.

If you signed last year it's a little more, if you signed 2 years ago it's about 10% higher. If you've been stabilized longer than that you probably don't need to ask...

I'm guessing you're near the 2K threshold in which case he wants you out so as to destabilize the apartment especially if there's no vacancies in the building. Am I wrong?

I would stay if I was you. You also forgot to mention your rent.

My rent is about $1630 now. Landlord is pretty good actually. Not trying to get us out - he offered a temporary rent reduction for one year, actually. But it strikes me as only a little bit, and I think the rent is still high for the current market. Just trying to stay informed.

Streeteasy is an excellent way to check rents in your n'hood.

I searched for two bedrooms in Prospect Heights. Streeteasy found 22 two bedrooms. The median rent was $1,750.

You can check the results out at:

http://streeteasy.com/nyc/rentals/prospect-heights-brooklyn/rental_type:frbo,brokernofee,brokerfee|beds:2

Good luck.