When we started looking for apartments in Brooklyn, we feared the broker fee. But we tried for ""no fee"" listings on CraigsList anyway. I responded to one that was rented almost immediately, but the owner wrote back saying to contact Raymond. He said he took care of a lot of his buildings and that he knew his inventory better than he did. So I called with some hesitation, but Ray was a very excited agent. After speaking briefly, we arranged to see an apartment in Park Slope. While the unit was nice, it didn't set our world on fire (the location was slightly questionable). We asked if he had other places, and he mentioned another unit that was no-fee. We happily looked at that one and decided on it five minutes after seeing it. It was a no-fee through and through. I feel bad for those that feel they were roped into paying a fee, Rapid Realty carries units that do not have fee costs, we were lucky enough to find one. It was a quick experience, though the office was very hectic, our paperwork went through in less than 24 hours.
Pros: Excellent customer service, honest contracts, extended hours
Cons: So busy they might not answer your call the first time around, but they will get back to you
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