Hi, I am interested in renting the apartment.  What are you looking for in rent?
The listing price is 1850 but I do have permission to go a little lower. 
That is good to hear.  $1850 is outside of my budget, so I'm glad you can go lower.  Would you be willing to waive the one time rental fee?
That is possible, just don't tell your friends!
I won't!  Since I have to pay gas and electricity, would you be willing to rent the place for $1,500 flat?
The lowest I can go is  1600 and no rental fee. Does that sound good?