Question 1

What is Stooper, exactly?

Accepted Answer

Stooper is a listing platform focused on short and medium-term rentals—created by New Yorkers tired of scrolling through social media groups for flexible, real-world housing options. Think StreetEasy but for sublet and lease takeover needs.

Landed a dream job? Ex moved out? Traveling the world for a bit? Graduating in May but your lease ends in August for no reason? Join the party.

Question 2

Can you find me an apartment?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately we can't find apartments on behalf of tenants since we're not a brokerage. However, if you need help finding a licensed real estate professional, or just want some extra social media coverage for an existing listing, feel free to send us a message.

Question 3

Do I need to pay?

Accepted Answer

Nope! Anyone can use the app for free.

We're a local team and may eventually charge a small listing fee to: 1) keep the lights on and 2) help prevent scam listings. In the meantime, the best form of payment is your feedback (good or bad) sent to contact@stooper.com or our contact form.

Question 4

Can I use Stooper if I’m just renting a room?

Accepted Answer

Yes, so long as it's your own room or a roommates' room. We do not allow third-party room brokers.

If you’re listing your room in a shared space, make sure to: 
List the total number of bedrooms
Select "room only"
Be prepared to answer questions on why you're leaving and who's sticking around

Question 5

Do I need landlord approval to sublet or assign my lease to someone else?

Accepted Answer

Usually, yes. Most leases require that you get your landlord’s permission before subletting or assigning your lease. In practice, it's no secret some people do sublet informally—especially when money is an issue. We always recommended asking anyway.

Legal Rights
In New York State, if you live in a building with four or more units, you have the legal right to request permission to sublet. Your landlord can’t unreasonably (grey area, we know) deny that request, but rejections have occurred for reasons such as:
Your subtenant has unstable income or employment
They have a history of eviction or a criminal record
They have poor or no credit history
You don’t have a legitimate reason for leaving
You didn’t follow the proper steps to ask (you must give 30 day notice and landlord has 10 days to ask for additional info)
You don’t plan to return to the apartment

⚠ Always read your lease in advance and, if needed, get legal advice before subletting.

Key Sources:
New York State Senate | SECTION 226-B: Right to sublease or assign 
nyc.gov | Subletting FAQs 
NYC Sublet Law - Sublease, Assignment and Conditions - New York Estate Attorney Albert Goodwin

Question 6

I'm a landlord. Can I list my unit?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Stooper is open to landlords, property managers, and agents offering no-fee rentals. For traditional 12 month rentals, just select 'My Listings' and follow the steps under 'List a Rental'. If you're helping an existing tenant find a replacement, you can select 'Lease Takeover' and follow the steps—it takes just a few minutes from start to finish.

Please note to protect users we may request proof of your right to post a listing. Please read through our Terms and Conditions in full for additional details.

Question 7

What is the FARE Act?

Accepted Answer

Effective June 11, 2025, the Fairness in Apartment Rental Expenses (FARE) Act also known as Local Law 119 of 2024:

Prohibits landlords from passing on to prospective tenants the fees of landlords' hired agents (brokers); and
Requires landlords to explicitly disclose all fees that tenants must pay to rent an apartment before tenants sign a rental agreement.

The Law amends Chapter 4 of Title 20 of the New York City Administrative Code (Admin. Code) by adding Subchapter 15 entitled "RENTAL REAL ESTATE AGREEMENTS."

In simple terms, the law prohibits the landlord, their agent, or the listing agent from charging broker fees to tenants.

Important: There is a presumption that an agent who publishes a listing for the rental of an apartment does so with the permission or authorization of the landlord.

Question 8

How can I request a feature?

Accepted Answer

We’d love to hear from you. If there’s a feature you think Stooper needs—like extra verification, landlord tools, or something we haven’t thought of yet—reach out anytime via our contact page.

We’re building this platform with users, so your ideas help shape what we prioritize and what comes next.

Question 9

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Download the app on iOS or Android 
Search though all listings on Stooper without an account; or
Sign up for free to post a listing and chat with users

Frequently asked questions