[suzieqstar]

If an apt. is on for say $40k excl, and rates are an additional $5k, does the agent commission include the all in amount or the exclusive 'rental' only.

Also, can one negotiate the agent fee.....especially if you found the place! What would be fair?

Thanks

[kristof]

Hi Suzie,

you found the place, do you mean that you contacted a landlord directly? How did an agent get involved into that?

[suzieqstar]

i found the place on the web and asked the agent that was working for me to put the offer in....i.e. had been listed with another agent details

[PDLM]

Well if (as is more common) it is an all inclusive deal then the commission is based on the whole amount in my experience, so I guess it would be if the two parts are quoted separately. But these things are always negotiable.

[kristof]

Yes in that case you're probably going to have to pay the commission on the whole amount, but do not hesitate to negociate with your agent, just give him an amount of money you are ready to pay him for that apartment and see if he accepts your offer.

[discobay]

Negotiations are easier if the term of the tenancy is less than the standard 1+1 years. Ofcourse market conditions have an effect too. When demand (for rental units) is low agents are more willing to reduce their commission.
Or, instead of asking for a reduced fee how about asking for more service from them like negotiating with the landlord for a free rent period during which you have the keys but pay no rent so that you can move in, decorate, setup the utilities etc.