I'm not sure how much would be a good rent for you, but for me, this is how I would do it
- Check out websites to see what is the rent range for this place.
- Pick the few that are offering the lowest rent (from ., I can see units asking from $2.9K - $3.2k for a partial furnished one)
- I would likely call the agent (if I am not using any already) to request for viewing and when I found the unit I really like, I would probably offer $400-$500 lower than the original asking price and negotiate from there. The final rental price should be at least $200-$300 off their original asking price (as long as this asking price is on the lower range. There are 1 bedrooms in Vida asking for $4.5k, so even if I score $500 lower, its still considered bad negotation unless the unit have $100K worth of furnishing!).
- For Vida, I will try to get the agent to bring me to the swimming pool area and hint to him that there seems to be quite a few construction workers there, and express my concern. If I am viewing at night, I will also hint that it seems to be quite dark at night, etc (But honestly, its very safe. I walk back home in the middle of the night alone all the time, from Emerald Hills)
- I will do a mental checklist of how many units are available and the price range there, and use that during my negotiation.
- Of course, don't show too much enthusiasm when negotiating. If the agent comment that your offering price is too low or there are other viewers, just say "Its fine. There are a lot of units still available, and I will just look around" and move on to the next agent.
For Vida, there are ample of units, so I am sure you can find something decent at a reasonable price, unless you are in a hurry to move. Even if you are in a hurry to move in, don't let the agent know. Just say you are staying in a
Serviced Apartment (like how most expats do it) and you can move out immediately if you see something you like, or you can extend for another month till you find something (even if its not true).
Good luck! Hope we become neighbours!