Tag #Tenant Exploitation

What are the immediate consequences of real estate agents illegally charging prospective tenants commissions in Berlin and Hamburg, and what systemic changes are needed to address this?

In Berlin, real estate agent Patrick (name changed) illegally charges prospective tenants commissions for apartments, despite being hired by landlords, not tenants. For a 57 sq m, €1400/month apartment, he charged nearly €2500 in commission. The landlord confirmed employing Patrick, who advertises on kleinanzeigen.de, filters applicants, schedules viewings, and shows apartments with the landlord.