Yes, Zillow does charge a fee for rental applications, which is typically paid by the applicant directly to Zillow.
Understanding Zillow's Rental Application Fees
When applying for rental properties through Zillow's platform, specifically using their Zillow Rental Manager tool, there is a fee associated with the application process. This fee covers the cost of accessing and utilizing Zillow's application services.
Who Pays the Zillow Application Fee?
The rental application fee is paid by the applicant, not the landlord or property manager. This structure simplifies the process for landlords as they do not need to collect or process application payments directly through Zillow.
What the Zillow Application Fee Includes
The standard fee covers a comprehensive application process for the applicant. Here's a breakdown of what the fee typically entails:
- Cost: $35
- Coverage Period: Up to 30 days
- Application Scope: During this 30-day period, applicants can use the same application fee to apply to multiple properties that accept Zillow applications, without incurring additional charges for each separate application. This provides a cost-effective solution for renters who are applying to several listings simultaneously.
- Services Included: The fee grants applicants access to the digital application form, and it typically covers the costs associated with background checks and credit reports, which are crucial for landlords to screen potential tenants.
Benefits for Applicants and Landlords
The Zillow application system offers advantages for both parties:
- For Applicants:
- Cost-Efficiency: A single fee covers applications to multiple properties for up to 30 days, saving money compared to paying separate fees for each application on other platforms.
- Convenience: Applicants can fill out one application form and reuse it for various listings, streamlining their search process.
- Transparency: Applicants are informed of the fee upfront, ensuring clarity in the application process.
- For Landlords:
- Streamlined Screening: Landlords receive standardized applications, along with credit and background checks, directly through the Zillow platform.
- No Fee Collection: Landlords do not handle the collection of application fees, as applicants pay Zillow directly.
- Qualified Leads: The fee often helps filter out less serious applicants, as only those genuinely interested are likely to pay for the application.
It is always important for landlords to be transparent with prospective tenants about the application fee and any other costs associated with the rental process.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Payer | Applicant |
| Cost | $35 |
| Coverage Period | Up to 30 days |
| Application Scope | Apply to multiple properties accepting Zillow applications within 30 days |
| Tool Used | Zillow's Rental Manager |
