Working with a Realtor

A licensed real estate agent, referred to as a realtor, links prospective tenants with prospective landlords. While you have a good chance of finding what you’re looking for, renting an apartment through a realtor is your most expensive option.

Tips for working with a real estate agent:

• A real estate agent can be an efficient option, because he or she can quickly match your needs to available housing and drive you around the area to look at apartments.
• Most agencies charge a “finder’s fee” of up to one month’s rent if you lease an apartment they find for you. Only agents licensed by the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Agents may charge this fee.
• You pay the realtor’s fee only if you locate and rent an apartment through that agency. Otherwise, you pay nothing for any effort they invest in the search.
• Don’t feel pressured to rent any apartment or to sign any document.
• Read the rental application carefully before signing. Feel free to bring the document to the Off-Campus Housing Service for review.

Realtors are required to abide by the Rules and Regulations of the Massachusetts Division of Professional Licensure. Failure to do so can result in disciplinary action, including suspension or revocation of license. “...dissatisfaction alone is not proof of incompetence or sufficient grounds for disciplinary action.”

If you have a serious complaint against a realtor or broker, call or write the Division's Office of Investigations and ask for a complaint form.

Division of Professional Licensure

Office of Investigations

1000 Washington Street, Suite 710

Boston, MA 02118

tel. (617) 727-7406