Rental Application fee

[Matthew Wright]

I’ve never charged for an application, I use 3rd party, such as apartments.com. I’d like to start charging for applications, and screening myself, any suggestions of best way to do that?

[Nathan Gesner]

Quote from @Matthew Wright:

I’ve never charged for an application, I use 3rd party, such as apartments.com. I’d like to start charging for applications, and screening myself, any suggestions of best way to do that?

I charge $30 per person and my cost for the screening is $16. I know some people that pay $20 for the screening but they charge applicants $80. You can charge for the cost of the screening and your time, but try to keep it reasonable and justifiable.

I also recommend you develop a no-refund policy. Include a statement in your marketing and in the header of your application so everyone knows about it.