Thread: What happens when you go to a realtor for a house to rent?

My husband & I are looking to rent a house and are thinking about going to a realtor to aid in our search. What are the pros and cons.

Some Realtors specialize in this. Most do not think there is enough money involved to do this. But their pay comes from the landlord- you would not be paying.

RE agents typically only handle the larger and more expensive properties. Since their commission, paid by the owner, usually ranges from one month's rent to 10% of the contract value, it is not cost-effective to represent anything less than the top end. Also, landlords of smaller, cheaper properties simply cannot afford to pay real estate commissions/fees.

If you are looking for a high-end property in a fine neighborhood, you need to go through a realtor. They get financial data, references, credit reports, etc, for the landlord and handle viewings (usually after screening prospects). Otherwise, you are better off dealing directly with the owner/landlord.