Housing Agent fees for renewal and can you skip the agent?

[Paolita]

I heard from my agent that if we want to renew our rental contral we would have to pay a fee to him again. Is this true??? We were planning to stay put and avoid further costs, but if I have to pay again, we may as well look for a new place.

Also, I know most agents are professional, nice and have wheels; however, I do not like the pressure to lock in and I have time to look for a new place.

I learned the hard way that after all I actually did not really need an agent if I wanted to hire a transfer helper.. I am hoping something similar happens with real state agents..

Thanks for your help.
Paola

[Saint]

Tell the agent to take a hike and if he wants a fee get it from the Landlord!

In the current rental slow down the Landlord will definitely not want to lose a tenant that is willing to renew their lease!

[yoongf]

It depends on the initial rental agreement. If that particular clause is in, then that's contractual.

However, if it's a totally new lease between u and the landlord, then the old agreement lapses.

[Paolita]

Thanks for your input. I do seem we have a case and is not in the contract so there!
This is why I love this forum. People DO know how to give suggestions that are useful.

[lordhamlet]

Thanks for your input. I do seem we have a case and is not in the contract so there!
This is why I love this forum. People DO know how to give suggestions that are useful.

i recently renewed my contract with my landlord without agent's help, it's not all that difficult.

but do remember to revise the contract (date, duration, rent, etc.), have it properly signed, and send for government stamping. stamping is for your own protection, particularly in case of dispute. fyi