Red Flags of Rental Scams You Need to Avoid
Although there might be a chance that this year’s housing market will decline, looking for a new place to live can be stressful. Add in the possibility of being scammed, which can seem downright impossible. Unfortunately, rental scams are on the rise. But don’t worry. We’re here to help you avoid becoming a victim. But if you’re wondering what red flags of rental scams you must avoid, read on. Here we’ll also explain to you how to protect yourself from them.
Vague Listing Details and Suspicious Photos
The first sign that something might be wrong is when the listing lacks essential details. For instance, if there’s no mention of how much rent costs or what utilities are included, it could be a scam. The same goes for listings with very few photos or only stock images. If unsure, reach out to the landlord and ask specific questions. If they’re evasive or refuse to answer, it’s best to move on. You also need to check the photos, especially if they seem too good to be true. For example, if the pictures look like they could be from a professional shoot or staged, that’s a sign that you should proceed with caution.
Unusually Low Price
Another common sign of rental scams is an unusually low price. If the rent seems too good to be true, it probably is. Of course, there are always deals to be had. But if the price is significantly lower than similar listings in the area, that’s a red flag. Scammers will often use this tactic to lure in unsuspecting victims. So, do your research if you’re looking at a listing that’s too good to be true. Check comparable listings to see if the price is in line with what others are charging.
Signing Before Seeing Anything
You should never sign a lease or deposit without seeing the rental property first. It is as if you’re being offered a meager price that will end up soon. If a landlord is pressuring you to do so, it’s a major red flag. It is usually how scammers get people to hand over their hard-earned money. They’ll promise the perfect apartment but disappear once they have your money. Most of the time, you won’t even get to see the property. So, if a landlord pushes you to sign without seeing the rental first, walk away.
Extra Charge for a Background Check
Not only is it a good idea to run a background check on your potential landlord, but they should also be doing the same for you. If they’re not, that’s a sign that something might be off. And if they are, they shouldn’t be charging you for it. A reputable landlord will understand that both parties need to feel safe and secure. So, if your landlord is trying to charge you for a background check, finding someone else to rent from is best. These are just some of the red flags of rental scams that you need to be on the lookout for. If you ever have doubts or suspicions, it’s always better to err on the side of caution.
If unsure, reach out to a real estate professional or local housing authority for guidance. They’ll be able to tell you if a listing is legitimate or not. And they can also help you find a safe and affordable place to rent.…