I’m wondering how common it is to use a broker to act on our behalf as renters (like a buyers agent but not buying as we want to rent in an area first).
We contacted an agent who had a house on their books that we were interested in. Unfortunately the house wasn’t suitable, but the agent has offered to act on our behalf as our broker. This would actually be extremely helpful as we won’t have much time in the US before actually moving there - maybe a week or two at the most.
He said his fees would be covered by the landlord (usually 1st months rent). Sounds too good to be true!
I’ve done some research online and from what I’ve read in articles from around 5 years ago, it seems that in Connecticut, the landlord does pay the agent’s fee and if there are two agents involved, the fee will be split between the two agents (ours and the landlords).
This all sounds very amicable in theory but I was wondering how it actually works in practice. The last thing I need right now is brokers getting grumpy about split commissions.
Does anyone have any experience to share, particularly in CT? (For example in Manhattan, I believe the fee is usually paid by the renter). Any thoughts would be appreciated!