landlord doesn't honor agreements

Proof that you need everything in writing.

As a general rule in real estate you should never assume something is locked in until there is a fully executed contract in place! Sellers renegotiate all the time in my experience, even the distressed ones who have no place doing so!!

jmf, Nothing is done till you sign the agreement. In addition, landlord may perform credit check on you and you have to go through the condo application process. There is a small chance that you may be denied even after you sign the lease but are not approved by the condo board.

I had a potential tenant for a luxury apartment, who did not want to share his basic financials with me after agreeing (not signed) on the rent and lease document. I had to tell him to go away if he does not want to give me the docs.

ooh, a luxury apartment. sounds really fancy shmancy.