The Comprehensive Guide to Fees Involved in Renting an Apartment

Renting an apartment can come with many fees beyond just the monthly rent. Understanding these costs before signing a lease is important in order to budget and avoid any surprises later on. Here is a list of some of the most common fees involved when renting an apartment:

1. First Month's Rent: The first month's rent refers to the amount of rent that a tenant must pay when moving into a rental property for the first time. It covers the rental period from the move-in date to the end of the current rental month. This amount is typically due on or before the move-in date and is required in order to secure the rental property.
2. Last Month's Rent: The last month's rent is an additional fee that is often required by landlords or property management companies before the start of a tenant's lease. It is equal to one full month's rent and is held in reserve by the landlord as a security deposit. This fee is intended to cover any unpaid rent or damages at the end of the lease. The last month's rent may be refundable if the tenant meets the terms of the lease agreement, such as leaving the property in good condition and without any unpaid rent.
3. Security deposit: This is a fee that is usually collected upfront before moving in and is equivalent to one month's rent. The security deposit is held by the landlord as a form of protection against any damages or unpaid rent. The security deposit is typically returned at the end of the lease term if the apartment is returned in good condition.
4. Pet deposit: If you have a pet, some landlords may require a pet deposit. This fee is typically equal to one month's rent and is held in case of any damages caused by your pet. Some places charge per pet, per month. This fee is usually around $50-$75/month.
5. Broker's fee: A broker's fee is a charge that a tenant pays to the real estate broker who is helping them find an apartment to rent. This fee is usually paid by the tenant, and not the landlord, and is a percentage of the annual rent amount or a one-time flat fee.

   In most cities, the broker's fee is usually around 12-15% of the annual rent amount. For example, if the annual rent for an apartment is $20,000, the broker's fee would be $2,400 to $3,000. Some brokers may charge a flat fee, which is a set amount that does not change regardless of the rent amount. For example, a broker may charge a flat fee of $1,500 for their services. In Boston it is normally one month's rent.
   It's important to note that some landlords may offer to pay the broker's fee on behalf of the tenant. This is typically done in a tight rental market where landlords are trying to attract tenants to their property. In this case, the tenant will not have to pay the broker's fee, but they should still check with the broker to make sure they are not responsible for any other fees.
   The broker's fee is used to cover the cost of the broker's services, which typically include showing the apartment to the tenant, negotiating the lease terms and conditions, and handling all the paperwork required for the rental process. The broker's fee is usually non-refundable, meaning that the tenant will not get the fee back if they decide not to rent the apartment or if the landlord decides not to rent to them.
   

6. Parking fee: If you have a car, you may have to pay a monthly parking fee. This fee can vary depending on the location and availability of parking in the area.
7. Late payment fee: If you pay your rent after the due date, some landlords or management companies may charge a late fee. This fee can vary but is usually a percentage of the monthly rent.
8. Renewal fee: Some landlords or management companies may charge a fee for renewing your lease. This fee can vary but is usually a percentage of the monthly rent.
9. Termination fee: If you choose to break your lease early, some landlords or management companies may charge a termination fee to cover the cost of finding a new tenant.
10. Utilities: Most apartments require tenants to pay for their own electricity, gas, water, and other utilities. Some landlords or management companies may also charge a monthly fee for trash and sewage services.

It is important to understand that these fees can vary greatly depending on the landlord or management company, the location of the apartment, and other factors. Before signing a lease, be sure to ask the landlord or management company about any additional fees that may apply and to get a clear understanding of the costs involved in renting an apartment.

 

Can a landlord require a month's rent deposit with an application for an apartment in Massachusetts?

No, a landlord in Massachusetts cannot require a month's rent deposit with an application for an apartment. The Massachusetts security deposit law limits the amount of a security deposit that a landlord can charge to one month's rent. This means that a landlord cannot require a tenant to pay a month's rent in advance as an application fee.

The only fees that a landlord can charge with an application for an apartment in Massachusetts are:

• A credit check fee, not to exceed $35
• A background check fee, not to exceed $35
• A processing fee, not to exceed $25

If a landlord requires a tenant to pay more than these fees, the tenant can file a complaint with the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office.

 

Summary

Renting an apartment can come with many fees beyond just the monthly rent. Understanding these costs before signing a lease is important in order to budget and avoid any surprises later on. Some of the most common fees include security deposits, pet deposits, parking fees, late payment fees, utilities and termination fees. Before signing a lease, be sure to ask the landlord or management company about any additional fees that may apply and to get a clear understanding of the costs involved in renting an apartment.

 

 

Homes for rent: Boston Apartment Rentals

Homes for sale: Massachusetts Homes for sale