Massachusetts' New Broker Fee Law, Explained

Massachusetts now prohibits brokers’ fees being charged to renters unless they specifically hire the broker.

In a move aimed at reducing upfront rental costs, Massachusetts lawmakers have introduced legislation that would prohibit landlords from requiring tenants to pay broker fees unless the broker was hired by the tenant directly. Under current law, renters often face thousands of dollars in additional costs—sometimes equal to a full month’s rent—simply to secure a unit. The new proposal has gained widespread support among tenant advocacy groups who argue that broker fees unfairly burden renters already grappling with high housing prices.

If passed, Massachusetts would join cities like New York, which have implemented similar restrictions to promote affordability and accessibility in the rental market. Landlords and some real estate professionals have expressed concern about potential cost-shifting and market adjustments, but housing experts say the law would help level the playing field for tenants and eliminate surprise expenses during the leasing process.

This legislative push reflects a broader trend across the U.S., where policymakers are responding to growing public demand for fairer and more transparent rental practices, especially as rent prices continue to climb in urban centers. The proposal is currently under review in the state legislature and, if approved, could go into effect later this year.