Watch Out for Apartment Rental Scams

Finding the perfect apartment can be tough, and scammers know it. Here’s how to recognize their traps and protect yourself from becoming a victim.

Red Flag #1: Fast Deposit Required

In 2019, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported a scam where renters paid deposits for unseen apartments. The listings were fake, and people lost thousands of dollars. If someone is pushing you to pay a deposit right away, be careful. Real landlords let you take your time to visit and decide. Never send money without verifying the offer.

Red Flag #2: The Apartment Looks Too Good to Be True

In 2020, ABC7 Chicago found a scam where renters saw beautiful photos but ended up with shabby apartments, losing their deposits in the process. Scammers often post nice photos of apartments that don’t match reality. If you get to see the place (and that’s a big if), it’s often in poor condition.

Protect Yourself

Here are some tips to avoid getting scammed:

• Always visit the property in person. If you can’t, ask a trusted friend or real estate agent to check it for you.
• Research the landlord or property manager. Look for reviews and complaints.
• Verify the listing. Check if the photos are reused from other sites.
• Never wire money. Use secure payment methods.
• Read the lease carefully. Make sure all terms are clear.

If You Get Scammed

If you fall victim to a rental scam, call NorthCountry for guidance and support. You should also report the scam to local law enforcement and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Additionally, notify the platform where you found the listing so they can take action to prevent others from being scammed. It may also be helpful to seek legal advice to explore your options for recovering lost funds.

Stay Safe

Rental scams are common, but you can avoid them by being cautious. Look for red flags, verify listings, and don’t rush into payments. Stay vigilant, and you’ll find a safe, scam-free rental.