In this technological age, most logistics involved with moving are done on the web. Tasks, like asking for a relocating quote, having your utilities updated, and searching for a new place, can be accomplished from the comfort of your PC.
Even though the internet makes relocating easier in some ways, it exposes people to rental scams. In this article, we have compiled some tips to help you steer clear of such scams online.
How do I avoid rental scams?
Rental scams are a serious problem, and they happen more frequently than you would want to imagine. That is why you always need to be on the lookout for when preparing for a relocation and ensure you’re renting a secure property. Here’s how you can do that:
1. Avoid landlords who don’t agree to a personal meeting
Although some properties are open for viewing in the absence of a property manager, stay away from landlords who have an issue with meeting you personally.
One of the common excuses given by scammers is going overseas so communication can only be on the web.There is a chance that such individuals do not even own the said home or lack the authority to sell it to you.
2. Never make an advanced payment
It is usual for a rental agreement to request for the first month’s rent and a security deposit beforehand. Even so, no money should be requested before you can visit the rental.
Often, scammers go mute once they receive the cash, leaving you right where you started but with a hole burnt in your pocket.
3. Always request for a lease agreement
This agreement protects the rights of both you and the landlord. The document should state the owner of the rental, the amount you should pay for rent, and what is expected of you as a tenant.
Agreeing to live in a property with no lease could end up in unwarranted rent raises, stolen deposits, and disregard for your rights. If the property manager has a problem with drawing up a lease, proceed with your search for a house.
4. Beware of inconsistencies
Many a time, if the property appears too lucrative, chances are it isn’t. Some listings may be too cheap for what is being offered in comparison to other options with similar properties. When you run into such, carefully assess it before proceeding with anything.
Scammers may upload photos of a different nicer property to dupe renters.
5. Anticipate standard tenant screening
As much as nobody enjoys having their details looked into, it is required for you to be allowed to rent a property. Therefore, if your landlord skips this process, it may be a sign that they are trying to persuade you into taking a bad deal. In such a situation you might as well run for the hills.
6. Beware of very high deposits
The same way an extremely low deposit indicates something fishy, so does an exceedingly high one. In some cases, the scammer will take off with the deposit right after the payment is made. In others, since the money is often nonrefundable, and you are not familiar with the conditions of the house, the landlord will use the opportunity to get as much money out of you.
7. Avoid making anything official before seeing the property
It is never a good idea to put your signature on anything before you have taken a look at the property. Even if you are presented with a show model of it, only make it official once you have viewed the home.
8. Be drawn towards properties that are of high-quality
If you are conducting your search on the internet, consider properties that display high standards. Do away with listings that have low-quality pictures, little info, or no photos at all. You should also pay attention to the grammar and format used.
9. Refrain from providing personal info
To view a rental property, all you are required to produce is your ID. No further personal information should be requested by your property manager before things are made official.
10. Use honorable real estate web pages
Using a site with a good reputation will greatly reduce the risk of being scammed. If you decide to hunt for rentals on sites such as Craigslist, be sure to concur all info with each building’s official site. All properties with no sites should be done away with.
What is a reputable moving company in Toronto I can hire for a hassle-free relocation?
It makes little difference if you’ve just got married and you’re planning a move, or if you’re looking for a way to move to university and start to live alone off campus for the first time. You want to avoid rental scams and hire a moving company that can help you make easy work of it all. Miracle Movers is here to help you with all your relocation needs. It doesn’t matter if you’re moving to another province, or just closer to Casa Loma or another Toronto neighborhood. We’re here for anything you need. Reach out to us today!