The Real Cost of Renting a Home (Fees No One Warns You About)
When most renters search for a home in Las Vegas, they focus on one number: the monthly rent.
But the reality is, rent is only part of the total cost.
Many renters are caught off guard by hidden or unexpected fees that show up during the application, move-in, or even after they’ve already signed the lease. At RentMor, we believe transparency saves renters time, money, and stress — so here’s a breakdown of the real costs no one warns you about.
1. Application Fees (That Add Up Fast)
Most rental properties charge $65–$100 per applicant.
If you apply to multiple homes without knowing the qualifications upfront, these fees can quickly turn into hundreds of dollars — with no guarantee of approval.
💡 This is why platforms like RentMor show credit score requirements and criteria upfront — so renters don’t waste money applying blindly.
2. Administrative & Processing Fees
Some properties charge admin fees on top of application fees. These may be labeled as: Lease preparation fees or Admin Fees
These fees are often non-refundable, even if you decide not to move forward.
3. Security Deposits (Not Always Just One Month)
While many renters expect a one-month deposit, that’s not always the case. Depending on credit score, rental history, or pets, deposits may include:
Additional security deposits
Risk mitigation fees
Pet deposits or pet fees
In some cases, total move-in costs can equal 2–3x the monthly rent.
4. Pet Fees & Monthly Pet Rent
Pet-friendly rentals often include:
One-time pet deposits
Non-refundable pet fees
Monthly pet rent ($25–$75 per pet)
These costs are rarely highlighted in listings but significantly impact long-term affordability.
5. Utility Setup & Monthly Extras
Renters may also be responsible for:
Trash and sewer fees
HOA pass-through fees
Utility setup deposits
These add another $75–$130 non refundable.
6. Renter’s Insurance (Often Required)
Many leases require renters' insurance, typically costing $10–$25 per month.
While it’s affordable and smart to have, it’s still an additional cost renters should plan for.
Why Transparency Matters When Renting
The biggest mistake renters make isn’t choosing the wrong home — it’s not knowing the full financial picture upfront.
At RentMor, we work to make rental listings clearer by showing:
Credit score requirements
Income requirements
Known move-in costs
Whether pets, co-signers, or special programs are accepted
This helps renters budget realistically and apply confidently.
Renting a home doesn’t have to feel like a financial guessing game. When renters understand the true cost of renting, they make better decisions and avoid costly surprises.
If you have questions about rental qualifications, move-in costs, or need help finding a rental that fits your situation, we’re here to help.
📩 Contact us at admin@rentmor.com
We’ll guide you honestly — and help you rent smarter in Las Vegas.