Leasing Info & FAQ

We understand that the process of renting an apartment can be a daunting task- especially if you've never done it before.

How do I begin the leasing process?

The first step is to get a Red Tree agent on the phone. Together, you will have a dialogue about your needs as a renter. The following are some talking points that are sure to come up in the conversation:

  • How many people are in your party?
  • What is your target move-in date?
  • In which areas do you wish to live? Why?
  • Do you have pets?
  • Do you require parking? For how many cars?
  • When are you available for parking?

What do your services cost?
We charge a brokerage fee equivalent to one month’s rent.
Some landlords and management companies pay the entire fee, some pay a percentage of the fee, and most pay none of the fee.

What is a brokerage fee?
The brokerage fee pays the agent for doing their job. In addition to doing the paperwork, agents prospect suitable apartments, photograph and market them, post ads, coordinate showings, copy keys, and do dozens of other tasks that you, the client, doesn't see. 

When do we tour apartments?
Red Tree agents work around your schedule! Once your agent understands your apartment search, he or she will set up appointments to tour the best apartments Boston when it’s convenient for you. The rental market moves rapidly, and often apartments are rented within the week they are put up for rent. To be on the safe side, try to schedule your appointment as early as possible (i.e, the day after you speak with your agent).

What is the application process?
Every landlord and management company has a different procedure.
We charge a $35 application fee per credit check. Some management companies pull their own credit checks and charge their own application fees. Expect to put down first month’s rent, last month’s rent, and a full security deposit before move-in. Some landlords waive last month’s rent or don’t collect a security deposit. Some management companies charge a re-keying fee. Talk to your agent about the required up-front costs for each apartment you tour.

What do I bring to my showing?
In order to push the application through as quickly as possible, try to bring the following to the showing:

  • Photo ID
  • Two recent paystubs
  • Your checkbook
  • If international student, an I-20
  • If starting a new job, letter of employment
  • If student, letter of enrollment
  • The name and contact info of your current landlord

What are the terms of my lease?
Each apartment has its own lease terms. In general, we use the standard Greater Boston Real Estate Board lease and our Red Tree Addendum. Ask your agent for a copy of the terms before you put in your application.

If you have any more questions about apartment hunting or the leasing process, contact us by clicking here.