Navigating the rental market can be challenging, especially with the rise of sophisticated scams targeting prospective tenants. At Conquest Property Management, we prioritize your safety and aim to keep you informed. Please read the information here and utilize the tips provided to protect yourself.

First, we’ll talk about some of the most common rental scams.  Watch out for fake listings.  Scammers copy legitimate property details and photos to create enticing fake ads. These often appear on various rental platforms, making it hard to distinguish real from fake.    You also need to be wary of unseen property scams.  Fraudsters claim they’re unavailable to show the property and pressure you to sign a lease or send money without a viewing. Legitimate landlords will arrange for you to see the property or have a trusted representative show it. If it seems too-good-to-be-true, it is probably a scam. Listings with unusually low rent can be a red flag. Always compare prices with similar properties in the area to ensure the deal is legitimate.

How can you protect yourself?  Here’s a few tips.    Verify all listings. Cross-check the property’s details across multiple platforms. Inconsistencies can indicate a scam. If you can, always visit the property. Always tour the property in person or have someone you trust do so. This helps confirm its existence and condition. Avoid using unusual payment methods. Be cautious if asked to pay via wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. These methods are hard to trace and often used by scammers.  Make sure you research the Landlord or property manager. Look up their contact information and reviews. Legitimate landlords will have a verifiable online presence.  Lastly, get everything in writing. Ensure all agreements and terms are documented in a formal lease. Review the lease carefully before signing.

What to Do If You Encounter a Scam?  First, cease all communication. Stop all contact with the suspected scammer immediately.  Next, report the listing. Inform the platform where you found the listing about the fraudulent activity.  Last, contact authorities. Report the scam to local law enforcement and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).  This helps to keep everyone safe.

At Conquest Property Management, your safety is our priority. Stay vigilant, trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to reach out to us for assistance in your rental journey.