If I find an apartment rental that I like with a broker fee, do I have a better chance of negotiating the fee down if I don’t use a broker to represent me?

[I am ok with paying a broker who helps me, but if they’re unhelpful, I’d rather get a better deal, if possible.]

The simple answer is that every situation is different and will depend on the exclusive agent representing the property. Some exclusive agents will be ok reducing the fee a bit, while others will essentially require it stay at 15% (and believe they’re going to get it from someone).  I’d think that you’d have a chance to get it down from 15% to 12% or even potentially less, but most agents will try to get the full 15% (or close to it) if they can, regardless of whether there is another agent in the picture. So it really can vary.

If you do work with a quality agent (such as our team!), there are certainly benefits that you will realize, such as saving time and stress, allowing the agent take care of the process for you.  This can include runing a thorough search and/or providing honest feedback on listings you select, scheduling appointments, viewing properties with you, price negotiation, managing the application process and advising you throughout the transaction.