When planning to rent a house or apartment, one of the initial costs you might encounter is the rental application fee. Many properties listed on Zillow use the platform's Rental Application Fee tool, which lets you know exactly how much you'll be charged to apply. But how much does Zillow charge for rental application fees, and what do they cover?
Zillow does not charge a rental application fee directly. Instead, they facilitate the process by providing an integrated tool for property managers and landlords to set their own fees. The fee amount varies and is determined by the property manager or landlord, not Zillow itself.
Understanding Zillow's Rental Application Fee Tool
Zillow's Rental Application Fee tool streamlines the rental application process by allowing potential renters to submit their application fee directly through the platform. However, the amount, breakdown, and what the fee covers are set by the property manager or landlord.
So, how do you find out how much a specific rental application fee is? Here's how:
Checking the Listing
Often, the rental application fee is clearly stated in the property listing on Zillow. Look for the 'Rent' section, where you might see a line item for 'Application Fee' or 'Admin Fee'. If the fee is not stated, it's likely that the property manager or landlord has decided not to charge one, or they want to discuss it with applicants directly.
Pro Tip: If the listing doesn't state the fee, save the property and keep an eye on it. Fees can be added later, and you'll be notified via the 'saved searches' feature.
Using the Rental Application Fee Tool
If the listing doesn't mention the fee, you can use Zillow's Rental Application Fee tool to find out. Here's how:
1. On the property details page, click on 'Apply Now' or 'Start Application'.
2. In the next screen, you'll see the application fee, usually labeled as 'Application Fee'. If there's no fee, it will say 'No application fee'.
What Does the Rental Application Fee Cover?
Rental application fees cover the costs associated with processing your application. These can include:
- Credit and background checks
- Eviction and criminal history checks
- Income verification
- Reference checks
- The time and effort spent by the property manager or landlord in reviewing your application
In some cases, the fee may also cover the cost of any additional services the property manager or landlord uses during the application review process, such as online application processing tools.
Average Rental Application Fee
The average rental application fee in the U.S. is around $50, but this can vary greatly depending on the location, property type, and market conditions. Some landlords may charge more, while others may charge less or not at all.
Pro Tip: Before applying, ensure you have the fee amount, and you're comfortable with what it covers. If not, contact the property manager or landlord directly to discuss.
Refundable vs Non-Refundable Fees
Some rental application fees are refundable, meaning you'll get the money back if you're not accepted as a tenant. Non-refundable fees, on the other hand, are not returned, even if you're not approved. It's essential to understand which type you're paying before submitting your application.
As you navigate the rental application process on Zillow, remember that fees vary widely, and it's crucial to understand what you're paying for. By being informed and proactive, you can make the rental application process smoother and more manageable.
The next time you're ready to apply for a rental property on Zillow, you'll know exactly where to look for the application fee and what it covers. Happy house hunting!