High rents are forcing small businesses in into tough choices

NEW YORK — While many costs have come down for small businesses, rents remain high and in some cases are still rising, forcing many owners into some uncomfortable decisions. "Every time the rent goes up, we have to raise prices, to keep up with the cost," said Adelita Valentine, owner of HairFreek Barbers in Los Angeles. "But with the cost of living, it makes it difficult on our customers." Other owners are choosing to be late on payments or seeking out new locations where the rent is lower. A few are pushing back against their landlord.