Massachusetts Is About to Change How Rental Broker Fees Work: Here’s What That Means for You

If you’ve ever rented an apartment in Massachusetts, you know how quickly the upfront costs can add up. First month’s rent, last month’s rent, security deposit, and on top of that, a broker fee that can cost another full month’s rent.

That could soon change.

As part of the newly passed state budget, lawmakers included a provision that would eliminate broker fees for renters. Instead, those fees would now be paid by whoever actually hires the broker, typically the landlord.

Governor Maura Healey has voiced strong support for the change, calling the current setup unfair for the renter. She is expected to sign the bill into law.

So, what exactly does this mean?

In simple terms, if a landlord uses a broker to list and rent out their property, they would be the one responsible for paying the broker, not the renter who ends up signing the lease. If this bill becomes law, it could make a big difference for renters across the state, especially in competitive markets like Boston, New Bedford, and Providence where fees are steep and rentals move fast.

Will it impact landlords and property owners?

Yes, but only in cases where they are choosing to use a broker to lease out their units. This change doesn’t prevent anyone from hiring a professional, it just shifts the cost to the person making that choice. And if you're a landlord, it is one more reason to carefully consider your pricing, marketing strategy, and how you plan to fill vacancies in the months ahead.

Why this matters now

Rents are still high across much of Massachusetts, and affordability remains a major challenge for many. Removing broker fees from the renter’s plate could make it just a bit easier for people to secure housing, especially younger renters and first-time movers who might not have thousands sitting in savings.

This update is still fresh, and we will likely hear more in the coming weeks as implementation details are clarified. But it is a big shift worth paying attention to, whether you are a landlord, renter, or just someone who wants to stay informed.

If you are navigating a move or simply want to understand how these changes might affect your current situation, I am always happy to chat.

You can read the full story from CBS News here.

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