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Real estate brokers

If you need to find an apartment in another state, one where you have no connections, real estate brokers may be your best option. A broker will know the area to which you want to move and be able to give you valuable guidance about the amenities you need as well as negotiating terms with a landlord.

Even for a local search, you may find yourself dealing with a broker because landlords often employ such real estate professionals to handle the business of finding a tenant for a vacant apartment. There's the possiblity, too, that if you don't have the time to spend looking for an apartment, you may decide to have a broker do the work for you.

It is important that you understand how real estate brokers is to be compensated and for whom he or she works. If a landlord has retained the services of a broker by way of a listing agreement, then the broker is working for the landlord even though the commission will likely be paid by the tenant, based on a percentage of the apartment's rental. The prospective tenant may, however, negotiate with the broker to clarify the terms of the commission's payment. It's advisable to put these terms in writing and to specify whether the commission is due upon an oral agreement between the prospective tenant and the landlord, or only if a lease is actually signed or the tenant occupies the apartment.

If you decide to retain the services of a real estate broker to find an apartment for you and to negotiate with a landlord, then the broker works for you. Nonetheless, you should put the terms of your agreement in writing. Make sure that the broker is really trying to find the right apartment for you, based on your needs, and not simply trying to get you to choose as quickly as possible so as to collect the commission. You should also ensure that your written agreement covers the issue of disengaging yourself from the broker if you decide to end the relationship.

Real estate brokers are licensed and regulated. To check on a realtor's credentials and standing, contact the appropriate state licensing agency.