Did I just get scammed? short term rental contract question..

[nik.dj808]

I recently signed a short term contract for a 1 month apartment rental in Palermo. The 'real estate commission' was stated as 20% of the total contract. The contract was for $500 which is one month of rent and there was a $500 deposit. Question:

• Should the commission be $100 (20% of $500) or should it be $200 (20% of $1,000 which includes the deposit) ?
• I was charged $200 but I think it should have been $100 as deposit is not part of the total contract.
• In general, how long should I expect to pay real estate commission? If I renew the contract multiple times do I have to pay real estate commission for every renewal?

Thanks for your help!

 

[Reply Guy]

Did you just get scammed?

 

[nikad]

yes, sorry. Try to contact the landlord directly ( ask the building super and then if you close a deal give him a tip ) ie: bypass the agent if you are really happy and like the place.

 

[Quilombo]

Yes, you did.