Be Scam Aware!

Looking for Rental Homes? Be Scam Aware!

Rental scams target people seeking affordable rentals. Before you rent, ask yourself:

• Does the rent seem low compared to similar units?
• Will the manager meet in person at the property to tour the inside and outside?
• Was I asked to send money before I sign a lease?

HousingLink.org, an online source for affordable housing information, notes that scammers often duplicate property listings, adding their own contact details. Potential renters then contact the scammer instead of the legitimate property manager. The scammer makes excuses about why they can’t meet in person and asks the renter to send money through an online payment app such as Venmo.

When searching for a new rental:

1. Meet the owner or property manager in person at the rental unit.
2. Tour the inside and outside of the unit to make sure it is a good fit for you.
3. Review the lease terms before agreeing to rent or paying any money.

Learn more:

HousingLink.org provides information about common rental scams and lists legal resources for renters.