Outrageous Application Fee

[ahlatsiawa]

One of the leasing agents I am in contact with just asked me to submit a non-refundable fee of 240 dollars with my application. Considering that all other applications I have filled had a fee of $60 max, I am compelled to ask, am I being hustled? I sure as hell don't want to spend that much money just to get my application in. What do you guys think?

Edited May 23, 2014 by ahlatsiawa

[ss2player]

Tell them that your other apps never went above $60. If they rebuke, they obviously don't want your business!

[TheGirlWhoLived]

Is it just an application fee? If so, I would say yes. Some places have an amenities fee that are usually around $300 that they ask you to pay along with the application. Although, it's re-fundable in the sense that if you don't lease there, you get it back.

[TakeruK]

That sounds fishy to me, if it's just an application fee. Most places in California have a $30-$35 per person fee. Some places are not allowed to charge these fees at all! However, the $240 might be a $40 fee plus a $200 deposit (just using example numbers) if you get approved for the lease. I'd confirm with the landlord before paying anything.

Edited May 23, 2014 by TakeruK

[ahlatsiawa]

Thanks for all the replies. I have sent her an email asking if the application fee will also act as a security deposit if I sign the lease. Let's see how she responds. 

[rising_star]

Yea, that definitely seems like a lot to me. A credit check only costs them about $30 so there's no reason they should be charging $240 just to apply for a place.

[Guest Gnome Chomsky]

Highest I've ever seen was $125

[ahlatsiawa]

No response. I guess I know who I'll be crossing off my list. Thanks for helping me out guys.