The situation obviously sucks for tenants, but do the owners have any incentive to invite change, given the current supply demand situation and the fact that they are able to pass on 100% of the cost to tenants?
Not now honestly, but if the system is designed to be as easy or easier than retaining a human broker, market forces should take over. I would be willing to pay a higher rent in exchange for not having to pay several thousand dollars up front in a broker fee. This becomes a win-win for both sides of the market.
