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Boston Apartment Rental FAQ

What’s with the $295 fee? I thought this was a “no fee” service?

A fee in the real estate world is what brokers charge when they rent and apartment — usually one month’s rent or more. The $295 we ask for is a registration charge that gets you access to most of the apartments a broker might have, but without paying their fees. We also give you email alerts and a special toolkit that includes samples of all the forms you will need to apply for an apartment — more than a broker would provide for far less money.

How often will I get updated apartment listings?

We get new apartments everyday, which means you will, too. If we have a listing, you have a listing — and if it matches your criteria, we will also send you an e-mail alert.

I have bad credit. Is it going to hurt my chances of securing an apartment?

Well, that depends. There are several ways to work around bad credit. Grand Central Apartments’ “Tenant’s Handbook” will explain some of the strategies to you and our professional advisors can guide you as well. We’ll do whatever we can to strengthen your applications for new apartments, even if you’ve made mistakes in the past.

What is a guarantor and do I need one?

A guarantor is someone — usually a family member or close friend — who is willing to sign a legal document guaranteeing you will be able to pay your rent. People with low annual incomes, such as students, or those with bad credit often need a guarantor who will pay their rent if necessary.

I have a pet. Can I bring it with me?

Dogs can be a problem for some landlords. We let you know in each listing whether pets are allowed. Cats are usually not a problem and the same goes for small animals that fit in cages or tanks, such as fish and birds, as long as they are legal to keep.

When will I know if I have gotten an apartment I applied for?

That varies from landlord to landlord, but most are fast. They want to get tenants in as soon as they can, so you will usually know within 24 to 48 hours. Our staff can help you follow up if necessary.

How long does my membership last?

That depends on your level of service. Full-service Gold and Silver members are active for 60 days while Bronze members are active for 30 days of service. If you are not going to access your account for a while you can ask us to freeze it for you. We will then reactivate your account at no extra charge when you are ready to start looking again.* And if you have rented with us before and want to look for a new apartment at the end of your lease, we will give you a 20 percent discount.*

I’m not sure I can afford to get an apartment on my own. What should I do?

Consult our “Rent Calculator” to see what you should be able to afford.

Will I have to pay a commission to the landlord?

It is illegal for a landlord or his agent to charge you a fee just to rent an apartment. Some landlords may ask you for a small fee to run a credit check on you and your guarantor, if one is required. Generally, you will be asked for your first month’s rent and one month’s rent as a security deposit when you sign a new lease. In some cases, we can help you negotiate your monthly rent and security deposit down.

How many new apartment listings do you receive each day?

We list between 50 and 300 new apartments each day and you will have instant access to them the moment they are posted.

What if I don’t find a place, can I get my money back?

Yes. We guarantee that you will find an apartment that meets your specific criteria by your move date. If we are unable to assist you, we will refund your money. For more details, see the Terms and Conditions before you sign up.*

What are your hours of operation?

We are open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you have any additional questions, please contact us and one of our rental advisors will be happy to help you.

* Gold membership only.