How to Find No Broker Fee Apartments

No broker fee apartments can save you from paying an average of 10 to 15 percent of the annual rent -which can total hundreds or even thousands of dollars – to a broker. There are a couple of ways you can get an apartment without paying a broker fee.

Step 1: Do the Legwork Yourself

Bypass the broker entirely and you won’t have to worry about paying broker fees. Essentially any apartment complex or management company that advertises vacant apartments is offering no broker fee apartments. You can call the management company or landlord, arrange to take a look at the apartments and sign a contract directly with them, never paying an additional fee to a broker.

The disadvantage of opting for this method is that you may not have access to the best available apartments, which may be rented out exclusively through brokers. In areas where apartments are in high demand, you may have little to choose from without a broker’s assistance. You will also have to make time to do the research yourself.

Step 2: Speak to a Broker and Be Upfront

Arrange to meet with a broker and discuss your options. Some brokers offer access to no broker fee apartments if you specifically request this service from the start. The reason why they may be willing is because the management company may pay your fee for you, so the broker will still get paid for her work. Just make sure that you’re clear about only wanting to look at no broker fee apartments before you sign a contract.