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Summer is a popular time to move to a new place, so you might be on the hunt right now. Looking for apartments or houses online is convenient, but that’s where many rental scams start. If you think you’ve found the perfect price in a great location, know how to spot a rental scam — before you commit to a rental.

  • Know that some listings are fake. Scammers make up listings for places that aren’t for rent or don’t exist. They want to get your money before you figure out the listing is fake. Check out the listing in person if possible. Also, look up the name of the property owner or rental company with words like “complaint,” “review,” or “scam.” See what other people say about their experiences.
  • Be careful how you pay. Don’t send money if a landlord says you can only pay with cash, a gift card, cryptocurrency, or a wire transfer service like Western Union or MoneyGram. Anyone who demands that you pay these ways is a scammer. Wiring money, sending gift cards, or paying with cryptocurrency is like sending cash. After you send the money, it’s hard to get it back.
  • Look for hidden fees. Does the advertised price include all mandatory monthly fees or services? What about optional fees? Some listings might bury these in footnotes, hyperlinks, or fine print. Ask the sales agent to confirm — in writing — any fees you’ll have to pay in addition to your rent.

Spot a rental scam? Tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. 

Scams
Wire Transfer Scams
Rental and Housing Scams
Gift Card Scams
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