Rates are changed but rents remain (5)

I believe the answer is:

tears

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'rents remain' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'rates are changed' is the wordplay.
'are changed' indicates anagramming the letters.
'rates' is an anagram of 'TEARS'.

'but' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tears that I've seen before include "Lacrimal drops" , "exuding drops" , "Rips; drops" , "Signs of unhappiness" , "drops and > drop special > rushes" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app