Rental scams are more common than you think
Every year, thousands of people lose money to rental scams in the United States. Newcomers and those looking for low prices are the most frequent targets. The good news: almost all scams follow patterns you can learn to recognize.
The most common scams
1. The apartment that does not exist
The scammer posts photos (often stolen from real listings) of an attractive apartment at a low price. They ask for a deposit to "reserve it" before you can see it. Once you pay, they vanish.
2. The fake owner
Someone who is not the real owner "rents" a house that is not theirs — sometimes an empty or for-sale home. They collect deposits from several victims and disappear.
3. The "out of the country" landlord
They say they are abroad and cannot show you the apartment, but will send the keys if you pay first. The keys never arrive.
4. The fake application fee
They charge a high "application fee" to process your application, but the apartment was never available.
Warning signs (red flags)
How to protect yourself: golden rules
| Rule | Why |
|------|-----|
| Always view in person | Confirms the apartment exists and is real |
| Verify the owner | Avoids the fake landlord |
| Never pay with untraceable methods | Money is recoverable if there is a record |
| Demand a written lease | Without a lease, there is no protection |
| Be suspicious of low prices | If it sounds too good, it is a scam |
How to verify the landlord is real
Safe payment methods
Always use methods that leave a record and are reversible or traceable: check, bank transfer to a verified account or payment through an official platform. Never use gift cards, cryptocurrency or cash without a receipt.
What to do if you were already a victim
Remember: a legitimate landlord will always let you see the apartment and sign a lease before asking for money. If something pressures you or feels off, stop and verify.