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Guide to Leasing Fees and Management Fees: What Rhode Island Landlords Should Know

Understanding exactly what you’re paying for in leasing fees and management fees can feel like decoding a foreign language as a Rhode Island landlord. This guide breaks down every cost, why it exists, and how it protects your property and your bottom line.


If you have property management in RI handling Screening Tenants in RI, navigating Rhode Island Late Rent laws, or using our Winter Maintenance Tips for RI Rentals, knowing what your fees cover is essential for smart property ownership.


1. What Are Leasing Fees?

Leasing fees are typically one-time charges associated with finding and placing a qualified tenant in your rental. A property management company in Rhode Island does far more than simply list your unit and most landlords underestimate the time, risk, and legal exposure involved.


What Leasing Fees Typically Cover

  • Advertising & Marketing Your Rental

    Professional photos, listing copy, syndication to rental platforms, and social media promotion.

  • Screening Tenants in RI

    Background checks, credit reports, employment verification, and eviction history are critical for avoiding issues later.

  • Showings & Tenant Communication

    Coordinating and conducting property tours, answering questions, and managing inquiries.

  • Creating Rental Agreements in Rhode Island

    Preparing legally compliant, up-to-date leases customized for Rhode Island rental laws.

  • Move-In Coordination

    Collecting deposits, conducting move-in inspections, documenting property condition.


What This Means for You

Paying a leasing fee ensures you have a vetted tenant and reduces the risk of Evictions in Rhode Island, property damage, or rent defaults.

Apartment in Woonsocket, RI managed by The Hennessy Group

2. What Are Management Fees?

Management fees are ongoing monthly charges for handling your day-to-day rental operations. These fees free you from emergency calls, maintenance coordination, tenant complaints, and rent chasing.


What Management Fees Typically Include

  • Tenant Maintenance Requests

    Handling service calls 24/7 including plumbing leaks, appliance failures, and heating issues.

  • Property Management Emergency Repairs in Rhode Island

    Coordinating urgent repairs quickly to protect your building and tenants.

  • Rent Collection & Late Rent Management

    Ensuring tenants pay on time, issuing notices, and enforcing Rhode Island Late Rent timelines.

  • Budgeting for Property Maintenance

    Helping landlords schedule preventative work and avoid costly surprises.

  • Routine Property Inspections

    Catching issues before they become major expenses.

  • Managing Tenant Communication

    From noise complaints to lease questions, everything is handled on your behalf.

  • HOA & Condo Association Coordination (If Applicable)

    If your rental is part of an HOA, your manager often handles communication, compliance, and fee reminders.


3. How Much Do Leasing and Management Fees Typically Cost in Rhode Island?

While exact rates vary depending on the local property manager Rhode Island landlords choose, you can expect:


Leasing Fees

  • Usually one month’s rent or a percentage of the annual rent

  • Covers tenant placement only


Management Fees

  • Typically 8%–12% of monthly rent

  • Some companies charge flat monthly fees

  • Additional fees may apply for lease renewals, court appearances, or major project oversight


These fees reflect the true Property Management Cost in Rhode Island and when managed correctly, they save landlords money long-term.


4. Why These Fees Are Worth It

Because doing it yourself costs more than you think.

Landlords often underestimate:

  • Time spent managing tenants

  • Coordination of maintenance

  • Legal risks from outdated leases

  • Stress of emergency calls at 2 a.m.

  • Costs of bad tenants from poor screening

A great property management company in Rhode Island turns your rental into a passive investment, not another full-time job.


5. Fees to Watch For (and When to Ask Questions)

A transparent company will walk you through all fees upfront. Use this checklist when comparing firms:

Ask About:

Most companies include a Property Management FAQ to ensure you understand everything before signing.


6. Do Leasing Fees and Management Fees Apply to HOAs and Condos?

For HOAs and condo associations, fees work differently.Boards may pay for:

  • HOA management FAQs and services

  • Financial management

  • Vendor oversight

  • Project coordination

  • Rule enforcement

Investors who own individual units still pay leasing and management fees separately for their tenants.


7. Use This Guide to Leasing Fees and Management Fees for Choosing the Right Property Manager

A strong manager saves you money.

Look for a team with:

  • Local Rhode Island experience

  • Clear fee structures

  • Strong maintenance relationships

  • Legal knowledge of Evictions in Rhode Island

  • Digital portals for communication and payments

  • Solid reviews and case studies

A good manager can prevent 90% of problems before they ever reach your desk.


Final Thoughts: Know Your Fees, Protect Your Investment

Using this Guide to Leasing Fees and Management Fees is the first step toward running a profitable rental property. With the right partner, you get fewer headaches, better tenants, and stronger long-term returns.


If you want help comparing your options or need full-service property management in Rhode Island, The Hennessy Group is here to make landlord life easier. Contact us at info@thehennessygrp.com, call 401-736-8300, or fill out our contact form on our website.

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