As the rental market continues to grow, so does the number of rental scams. These scams can be devastating, leaving renters without a place to live and out of a significant amount of money. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect yourself.

Do your research

Before you start looking for a rental, research the area and the average rental prices. This will help you identify any listings that are too good to be true. You can also check the landlord or property management company’s reputation online to see if there are any red flags.

Don’t send money

Scammers will copy real property listings from sites like Zillow and use the information to create a fake listing on another site such as Craigslist. When a would-be tenant calls to inquire about the property, the thief will say that they have received many calls confirming a high interest, and encourage you to send them a payment to hold the property.

Know your landlord

Just because you met someone at a property who claims to be the landlord doesn’t mean they are. This is where finding out as much information about the property as you can before going comes in handy. You can ask particular questions that an owner or landlord should readily know.

Visit the property

If possible, visit the property before signing a lease or sending any money. This will help you verify that the property exists and that it is in the condition described in the listing.

Be wary of unusual requests

If a landlord or property management company asks for personal information, such as your social security number or bank account information, be cautious. This information is not typically required for a rental application.

Use a reputable rental website

Use a reputable rental website, such as Zillow or Apartments.com, to find rental listings. These websites typically have safeguards in place to prevent scams.

Trust your instincts

If something seems too good to be true or if you feel uncomfortable with a landlord or property management company, trust your instincts and walk away.

By following these tips, you can avoid rental scams and protect yourself when searching for a rental property. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.