How to Avoid Being Scammed When Renting a New Place

Being scammed in any form is a terrible feeling and can cost you lots of money, stress, and time. Especially when it comes to renting a place, being scammed can cost you thousands of dollars and even result in your identity being stolen. Please take these steps to avoid being scammed. We decided to write this list after hearing the numerous stories from our residents about how they were scammed. Regardless of if you are a past, present or future customer if you feel that you are being scammed please email us at [email protected] and we will do our best to help you out.

1. See the place
   1. Most scammers can’t get past this step. If you see the place, there is a high chance that the place is legit.
2. Meet with the owner or manager of the property
   1. Real estate agents can be a front for a potential scam. Not always but be aware. If you are meeting with an agent, ask if you could meet with the owner to sign the lease.
   2. When working with management companies, a simple google search can help prove their legitimacy. If nothing comes up, ask for a management agreement with the owner/landlord.
3. Pay your security deposit or any other fees using a check or cashier’s check.
   1. In the event you are being scammed, police can have an easier time tracking down the funds. Scammers will avoid accepting this form of payment.
   2. Avoid wires, bitcoin transfers, etc.
   3. Avoid sending money using Venmo or Paypal. These are scammers preferred methods today.
4. Get a written lease
   1. Make sure the owner or management company is listed as the lessor.
5. Speak to current or past tenants if possible
   1. If the home is currently occupied, there is a really high chance that you are not being scammed. Most scams take advantage of empty/abandoned houses.
6. Identify Owner of the Property using Country Records
   1. Owners of properties are public information that could be looked up
   2. Most services cost money and require a licensed agent
   3. Reach out to us at [email protected] if you feel like you are being scammed and want us to look up the owner of a property you might be renting.

Additional:

1. Avoid giving your social security number in the application process.
   1. Offer to provide your own credit check and the last four of your social. Scammers can do a lot with your information.
2. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is too good to be true.
   1. Scammers will try to take advantage of market conditions by offering you really low rents and making you think you are getting a great deal. Sophisticated scammers will price fairly, so make sure to follow all the other steps.

Follow these steps and the chances that you will be scammed are slim. We hope you find the house of your dreams. The solution to stopping scammers is by educating shoppers. Please pass on this information to any other friends that might be looking for a place.

This article was written by Golan Corshidi, owner and founder of Saba Housing.

For more information, email us at: [email protected]