HOW TO AVOID RENTAL SCAMS

What are some current rental scams?

Unfortunately there are a number of people out there who take advantage of those who need houses/apartments. The most common scam is where the a person posses as property owner and they collect deposit monies without the right to lease the property.

Another variant on this scheme is charging many potential tenants fees for background checks and walking off with that money

If you are feeling nervous or worried that you might fall victim to a scam – Don’t

There are some excellent tips to help you avoid rental scams.

Make sure you are dealing with someone local!

Remember, most respectable leasing companies/landlords will have at least a local office and phone number. Be aware of out of state or overseas agents.

Monies-upfront

Never pay for this until you have viewed the property. And never pay your landlord in cash.

Price: Is the price too good to be true – Be realistic

Common to most scams is a property that is being offered at what seems a very good, even cheap, price.

Pictures

Do property pictures on the advertisement differ from the property you are being shown? Often, tricksters advertise a home using pictures copied from the internet and then take you to view a property they do not own.