Effective August 1, Massachusetts will become the last major state to outlaw broker fees for renters unless they choose to hire a broker. Governor Maura Healey emphasized that this change will save renters significant amounts of money while also providing free regional transit, making community college and child care cost-free, and protecting free meals for students. The new law distinguishes itself from New York's approach by only charging fees if tenants actively hire a broker, avoiding potential rent increases driven by landlord liabilities for commission costs.
Effective August 1, Massachusetts will outlaw broker fees for renters unless they voluntarily hire a broker, making it the last major state to implement this rule.
Governor Maura Healey stated that eliminating broker fees will save renters thousands of dollars while simultaneously providing free regional transit and childcare, making community college and school meals cost-free.
While Massachusetts' law limits broker fees, New York's FARE Act places the entire broker commission on landlords, who may increase rent to cover these costs, unlike Massachusetts.
Renters should familiarize themselves with the current broker fee norms and negotiation tactics to secure fair treatment and potential savings when renting an apartment.
Collection
[
|
...
]