Miscellaneous (Renters)

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When is the best time of year to rent in NYC? How does seasonality affect the rental market?

Should I work with one or multiple agents when searching for a rental apartment?

If you start early (4-6 weeks prior to your intended move-in) and find an agent who demonstrates trustworthiness, knowledge about the rental market and provides you with quality listings, then working with...

Who should I make the commission check payable to when paying the broker fee for an apartment rental? Is there a specific form of payment that is required?

All commission (broker fee) payments must be made to the brokerage firm where your agent is associated, according to New York State law.  You should NEVER write a check to the individual...

Should I consider renting a condo or co-op unit instead of an apartment in a rental building?

There are certainly advantages and disadvantages to renting a condo, co-op or in a rental building.  It may depend on personal preference and flexibility with certain items to determine which option is...

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...

If I work with multiple agents, will it cause issues if I check out an apartment with one agent and then a second agent sends me a link to the same listing? Does the second agent have any right to the first agent’s commission if I decide to rent there?

This is a classic example of why it’s usually more efficient to work with one quality agent; otherwise, there can end up being a lot of overlap and wasted time for you. It’s...

What is a market-rate apartment and how does it compare with a rent-stabilized apartment?

How much is my landlord allowed to increase my rent at the time of lease renewal for my market-rate apartment (non-rent stabilized)? Is there a standard percentage or range?

Is it possible to rent an apartment for less than a year?

Yes.  The term of a standard lease is generally 12 months or longer; however, there are multiple methods to rent an apartment for less than one year.  These include short-term leases, sublets...

I met with a broker and he/she wanted me to sign a few forms before showing me apartment rentals. Should I have signed them?

There are two standard documents that most agents will present to clients prior to showing them apartments.  They are the Client Registration and NY State Agency Disclosure forms, both of which may...