Have you ever come across a too-good-to-be-true apartment listing online? If so, you're not alone. Unfortunately, the internet has become a breeding ground for rental scams, leaving many hopeful tenants out of luck and out of money. Whether you're a first-time renter or a seasoned pro, it's important to know how to protect yourself from rental scams. In this blog post, we'll discuss some common rental scams and give you tips on how to avoid them.
Scammers will advertise apartments that don't actually exist, usually at a really attractive price. They'll tell you that it's not possible to view the apartment in person due to various reasons like the owner being out of the country. The scammer will ask you for a deposit before you can see the property. The best way to avoid this scam is to insist on seeing an apartment in person before giving any money.
If a landlord asks you to submit money through wire transfer or Western Union before you've even signed a lease, be wary. It's better to avoid providing money or handing over personal information like your bank account or Social Security number until you've ensured the apartment exists, requested references, and verified the landlord's legitimacy.
A scammer will say that they’d like to rent your house but will pay a rental amount that is much higher than the listed price. Later, they will request a partial or full refund and claim it was a mistake. Then, a fake check will be mailed to you with an extra amount to cover the refund. You should always be suspicious of individuals who provide over-sized deposits and always verify funds’ availability before releasing a refund.
A scam artist will advertise an appealing property at a bargain price, but when you arrive to see it, they'll tell you that it has been rented out. However, they have many more comparable apartments in the area. The other options are either more expensive or require a sign-in fee. If the landlord doesn't show you the same space you inquired about, just walk out and take your money elsewhere.
It is important to make sure that your agent or landlord is registered with the appropriate regulatory agency. An unregistered individual may attempt to charge you exorbitant fees, often in cash, because they know that they are operating illegally. Also, when dealing with rental agents, you should ask for their agent card and cross-check their name with the regulatory agency.
There you have it, tips for how to avoid renting scams. While it’s beneficial to do your research and take time to make an informed decision, it's always best to trust your gut instincts. So, choose your property carefully, take your time, and be mindful of anyone asking for money upfront. At The Robert Apartments, we pride ourselves on transparency and integrity. Our available rental apartments are open to everyone, and we are more than happy to provide a tour upon request. If you're looking for apartments in Madison, AL, contact us today to schedule a personal tour today!