Yes that is what I thought but this isn't just one agent that has mentioned this...an ERA agent and a "Look/Find" agent both wouldn't even show me flats without this paperwork...and other agents, though willing to show property, have all mentioned it as a requirement.

And the Bank (Citibank) rep. knew exactly what I was talking about like it was "business as usual" so all signs point to this being on the up and up...at least for the places we are looking for...most of which are fully furnished if that makes a difference though some have been un-furnished.