Rental Application question

[Mike Oxlong]

Been apartment hunting, and after a long search thought I found the right place. Applied, the company did the security (background) check, and approved me. Want me in to sign the contract and pay up tomorrow.

IN the meantime, found a better place by chance (introduced by aquaintance). Can I move on to the new and better place without any penalties? The background check is supposed to cost something like 40% of a month's rent. But, as I haven't signed a contract, I don't see how I could be charged for it. I just would like to be sure it isn't binding, or something that could impede future background checks...

[Mike Oxlong]

According to a few friends & aquaintances (foreign & Japanese), it will be no problem. I was concerned the real estate co. would be bitchy about it - it's bad enough they charge to help you find a place. You'd think I was buying. Shouldn't the owner cover those sort of fees (in a better world)?