Guide
How Much Does a Tenant Placement Service Cost in Montreal?
How to think about the cost of professional tenant placement against the cost of vacancy
Tenant placement pricing varies by provider and by what's included — marketing, showings, screening, and lease preparation are not always bundled the same way. Understanding what you're paying for matters more than comparing a single number.
Key Points
Compare What's Included
Marketing, showings, screening, and lease prep aren't always bundled the same way.
Understand the Fee Structure
Flat fee vs. percentage-based pricing changes what you're actually paying for.
Weigh It Against Vacancy Cost
An empty unit already has a real ongoing cost.
Factor in Placement Risk
A bad placement usually costs more than the fee to prevent one.
What's Usually Included
Most tenant placement services cover listing creation and distribution, responding to inquiries, running showings, screening applicants, and preparing the lease for signature. Some also include ongoing support after move-in. Confirm exactly what's covered before comparing prices between providers.
How Pricing Is Typically Structured
Tenant placement is commonly priced as a flat fee or as a percentage tied to one month's rent, though structures vary by company. Ask what happens if the placed tenant leaves early, since that affects the real value of the service.
Weigh the Cost Against Vacancy
An empty unit has a real, ongoing cost even before you factor in a placement fee. Use the vacancy cost calculator to see what your specific vacancy is costing per week, and compare that against a placement service's fee and expected time-to-fill.
Consider the Cost of a Bad Placement
A rushed or poorly screened placement can lead to missed rent, property damage, or an early move-out — all of which typically cost more than the placement fee itself. A structured screening process is part of what you're paying for, not just the marketing.
Ask What Happens If It Doesn't Work Out
Some services offer a placement guarantee or replacement period if a tenant doesn't work out shortly after moving in. It's worth asking about this upfront rather than after a problem occurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on your time, experience, and how quickly you need the unit filled. For owners who are busy or unfamiliar with screening, the time saved and risk reduced often justify the cost.
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