Avoiding Rental Scams: Tips for Finding Safe Accommodation

April 19, 2023

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Are you an international student looking for a new place to call home in Canada? Moving to a new country can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to finding a place to live. However, it's important to be aware of rental scams that can leave you out of pocket and without a place to live.

At Scoutbees, we understand the challenges of finding a safe and comfortable home in a new country, which is why we offer our expertise and services to help you avoid rental scams and find the perfect place to live.

To help you find safe and legitimate rental accommodations, we've put together some tips and advice on what to watch out for.

1. Research the landlord or property management company

Before signing any lease agreement, it's important to research the landlord or property management company. You can do this by checking online reviews, asking for references, and verifying their contact information. This will give you a better understanding of who you're dealing with and help you avoid potential scams.

2. Don't wire money or send cash before seeing the property

Always see the property in person before making any payments, and be cautious of deals that sound too good to be true. To help you find safe and legitimate rental accommodations, use a reputable real estate agent or housing service. They can provide you with professional advice, connect you with verified landlords or property management companies, and help you avoid potential scams.

Scoutbees is here to help you avoid scams by providing on-site visits and vetting of properties before you make any payments. Don't wire money or send cash without first seeing the property in person. Scammers may try to trick you by asking for a deposit or rent payment upfront, so always be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. Scammers may ask for a deposit or rent payment before you have even viewed the property. This is a red flag and should be avoided!

3. Read the lease agreement carefully

Always read the lease agreement carefully before signing it. Make sure you understand all the terms and conditions, and ask for clarification if there is anything you don't understand. This will help you avoid any surprises down the road. Be cautious when dealing with landlords. Be cautious when dealing with landlords who are unwilling to meet you in person or who ask for personal information such as your social security number or bank account details.

IMPORTANT: Trust your instincts, and if something doesn't feel right, it's better to walk away from the deal than risk becoming a victim of a housing scam. By following these tips and being cautious, you can protect yourself from rental scams and find safe and legitimate rental accommodations. Don't let scammers take advantage of you – do your research and stay safe!

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