I live in Virginia and my rent is up for renewal in February. My current rent is $1225 and I was wondering what would be the maximum amount of money my landlord could charge me for renewal?

I'm a little nervous now because a friend of mine lives at the complex too and her rent is $900 and her renewal price was $1350 with the month-to-month price being $1500.

Is this legal and should I be worried about a 4% increase in my rent?

SCH

When determining market rent amounts, landlords take into account many aspects. Included in this are (1) occupancy rates, (2) market rent values, and (3) competition rents. If occupancy is high, the landlord is able to raise rents because demand is high. If occupancy is low, then rents most likely will be stable OR with minimal increases. This is really a game of economics. If the market will bear a $900 rent increase, then I wouldn't be surprised if that's what is offered at time of renewal. IF you have concerns about what the renewal rent will be, I'd suggest contacting your landlord to discuss.