What to Know About Price Transparency Compliance

Overview

Hidden fees are one of the top frustrations for renters. In fact, nearly 60% say they would stop considering a property if unexpected costs push the price above what was initially advertised, according to a recent Apartments.com survey.

With more states enacting laws around pricing transparency, compliance is becoming not just a best practice—but a legal requirement. If you manage properties in Colorado, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Minnesota, or Nevada, here’s what you need to know.

What’s required?

New laws are requiring multifamily properties to display all-in pricing for their advertised units. This is a shift away from the common practice of listing only the base rent.

What’s the difference? All-in pricing includes all additional expenses that all residents are required to pay — like a flat technology fee or pest control fee. The base rent, on the other hand, is typically lower than what renters are ultimately required to pay.

All-in pricing is what the overwhelming majority of renters want to see. Over 80 percent of renters say they prefer that properties advertise the total price, according to the recent Apartments.com survey. That’s compared to only 11 percent who prefer to see the base price. (The remaining 6 percent have no preference.)

When are the laws going into effect?

Price transparency laws in several states are going into effect over the next few months:

• Massachusetts: September 2, 2025
• Connecticut: October 1, 2025
• Nevada: October 1, 2025
• Colorado: January 1, 2026

Laws governing price transparency have also been passed in Minnesota. Changes to Apartments.com’s presentation of pricing information for Minnesota properties will go into effect in late September.