Common Rental Scams and How to Avoid Them

April 12, 2022

Sidestep Those Sketchy Online Ads with These Rentals Tips

Finding a new home in today’s digital marketplace can come with a certain set of complications. From planning a move to the oversaturated volume of listings to dealing with agents and realtors, the entire process can be stressful– if not overwhelming, compiled with the challenges of everyday life.

And as with every complex market, there are people out there determined to exploit these financial and social anxieties for selfish gains– especially in major markets where the processes of looking and applying for a place to live can be strenuous and exhausting. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to identify and avoid some of the most common rental scams in the market.

Lack of Information

You may have heard the term “it’s a buyers market” before. That’s a polite way to say there are many more places available in the marketplace than people looking to buy or rent. Why is this important in avoiding moving scams? It should be easier to spot misleading or fake ads by the way they are advertised.

A lack of clear information about a potential listing should be your first red flag when assessing the legitimacy of a unit or rental home. A legitimate listing should have pictures and descriptions of the entire space, not just the room or rooms you have access to, and contact info about the landlord or other tenants occupying the space (if applicable). 

Remember, every listing is an advertisement. The lister should be trying to SELL you on the size and amenities of the rental unit or home. If the information is vague (only has a price and room picture), it is likely a fake ad.

Asks for Money Upfront 

Another common scam that preys on naive, underprivileged, or out-of-state renters is a lister that asks for money upfront or wants you to sign for a rental sight unseen. This scam can come in multiple forms, such as showing you pictures of a similar unit or home and saying they all look the same on the inside or declining to meet you in person before signing. Anyone who wants you to sign for a property before viewing typically has a nefarious motive for not wanting to give you a tour.

In the same vein, if the agent or lister asks for money via an unsecured payment method, such as a non-payment-protected digital transfer or wire transfer is likely a scam. Any legitimate lister will ask for a formal payment method like a cashier or bank check.

They Don’t Require a Background Check

Extensive background checks have become a staple of the modern rental market. And for a good reason– renters have a lot to lose leasing their property to someone they don’t know. If someone is offering you an expedited or no pre-approval in order to rent, they are likely trying to scam you for a deposit.

Before You Move

To avoid some of these common scams, here are a few pre-move precautions you can take:

Research the Property Beforehand

 If you’re feeling skeptical about a listing, try to find out as much information about it as possible. Research the agent or number on the listing. Search the building on Google and social media for reviews and first-hand insight. Look at the property via Google’s street view and make sure it looks the same as it does on the listing. If you have the proximity, visit the property beforehand. Do whatever you feel is necessary to make an informed decision.

Ask Questions

Signing a lease is a big commitment. Anyone who asks you to do so without proper consideration of time or tries to rush you through the process likely has an ulterior motive.

Always ask the right questions. Be curious about everything from the neighborhood safety and schooling rating, any problems the home or building has had in the past (mold, water leaks, etc), utility prices, and the previous tenants (if applicable). A legitimate lister should have nothing to hide and be happy to answer any questions you may have about your new potential home. 

Use Your Best Logic

In any situation regarding looking for and moving to a new home, use your best logic. If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always take your time and make an informed decision. 

 

Related Posts

Decluttering and Donating: A Year-Round Gift to Yourself and Others

Decluttering and Donating: A Year-Round Gift to Yourself and Others

Decluttering and donating are more than just organizing tasks; they're about reshaping our living spaces to better align with our current needs and aspirations. Sterling Interstate is dedicated to supporting this journey for the Phoenix community, assisting not only...

Long-Distance Moves for Seniors

Long-Distance Moves for Seniors

Moving is often cited as one of life's most stressful events, and when it comes to seniors embarking on long-distance relocations, the challenges can be even more complex. Whether it's downsizing from a family home, leaving behind a beloved community, or adapting to a...

Living the Salt Lake City Dream

Living the Salt Lake City Dream

Picture this: Nestled within the picturesque valleys of Utah, Salt Lake City stands as a vibrant urban oasis, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a strong sense of community. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you on a journey...

Need some assistance with your upcoming move?

Whether you’re moving long-distance or locally in the Phoenix area, we’ll do our best to make your move as seamless and stress-free as possible. Contact us today to request a quote!

Sterling Interstate
5.0
Based on 226 reviews
Google Rating
5.0
Based on 17 reviews
Facebook Rating
5.0
Based on 14 reviews
Yelp Rating
5.0
Based on 195 reviews
js_loader
Call Now for Your Free Quote