Finding an apartment
What does "no fee" mean on an apartment listing?
Updated By the Housing Rocket moderators
Short answer
"No fee" means you will not pay a broker's fee to rent that apartment. It does not mean there are no costs at all. You will usually still pay an application or screening fee, a security deposit and the first month's rent, and some listings add move-in, amenity or administrative fees.
The phrase comes from markets where renters have often paid a broker a commission, sometimes a month's rent or more. A no-fee listing is one where the landlord covers that, or where no broker is involved. Outside those markets, most listings are effectively no-fee and do not bother to say so.
Before you get excited about a no-fee deal, ask for a written list of everything due before move-in and everything due monthly. Watch for:
- Administrative or move-in fees charged by the building.
- Amenity fees for a gym, pool or package room you may not use.
- Required renters insurance or a monthly fee for the landlord's policy.
- Parking, storage, trash or pest-control charges added to rent.
Sometimes a no-fee apartment has a slightly higher rent that quietly recovers the commission over the lease. That can still be a better deal because you pay it over time instead of upfront, but compare the total cost over the full lease, not just the first check.
Want the whole picture? Read How to Find an Apartment in Facebook Housing Groups.