I just received a response from New York Habitat regarding their process and fees. In case anyone is interested, this is what they say:
After I have some information about you and your requirements, I send you proposals. If you see any that you like, let me know. At that point you can visit or speak with the owner/roommate. You can see as many apartments as you like. We charge a fee only if you take one. Depending on the client ( you), I can close a deal in as little as 24 hours.
If you would like to proceed, I would need to know a little more about your requirements; can you please confirm your information by answering the questions below. This would be important for matching you to an apartment and roommate..
* Your monthly budget for rent
* Your preference is to share with: a male / a female / either
* Your age
* The purpose of your stay: Tourism, studies, business…name and address of company or school
* You are a smoker: Yes / No
* You are willing to share with a smoker: Yes / No
* You have a pet: Yes / No. If so, please indicate the type.
* You are willing to share an accommodation with pets in the apartment: Yes / No
* You have allergies: Yes / No. If so, please indicate what type.
The above information is very important to match you with the best possible apartment and roommate.
Keep in mind that there is NO FEE for receiving proposals. We charge a fee ONLY when you find the right opportunity for you.
If this is the case, our agency fee is calculated as follows:
RENTAL PERIOD ------------------------------------------------------------ FEE
From 1 week to less than 1 month ------------------------------------ 35% of total rent
From 1 month to less than 6 months ---------------------------------- 50% of one month's rent
From 6 months to less than 12 months ------------------------------ 75% of one month's rent
1 year or more ------------------------------------------------------------------- One month's rent
* NOTE: FOR RENTALS OF 1 MONTH OR LONGER, THERE IS A MINIMUM AGENCY FEE OF $300
I think it's very reasonable for NY!