Because the landlord pays the fees, the rental agent's time is no charge to you, the renter.

When you find a quality agent who is willing to help with your search, it's a good idea to maximize your productivity before the agent loses interest in your problems. Most rental agents (like most people) are good people and they care about their client's needs. At the same time, there comes a point where the rental agent has to consider his/her own self-interests. Because the pay-off is so small for the agent, even the best rental agent loses interest very quickly if the renter has unrealistic expectations or if the renter isn't ready to make a decision.

So, it's in the renter's best interest to take advantage of the rental agent's expertise, but it makes sense to budget your time with the rental agent. For example, rather than using the rental agent's gas or time to figure out what the renter wants, a smart renter approaches the rental agent with an idea of wants and needs, and then uses the rental agent's expertise to secure the best possible residence.