BOSTON, MA (FRANKLIN COUNTY NOW) — Governor Maura Healey’s 2026 budget will include a section eliminating renter-paid broker fees. Currently, most renters in the state are required by default to cover the cost of a broker fee when they rent an apartment, which can be equivalent to a full month of rent. Governor Healey’s proposal will require the fee to be paid by whoever hires the broker, which is usually the landlord.