Staying safe

One rule

No money changes hands until the leasing office has approved you in writing.

Not a deposit. Not a holding fee. Not the first month. Nothing. Follow that one rule and you cannot be defrauded of your deposit, because you never send one.

Three things a scam says

“I need a deposit today to hold it.” No genuine lister needs your money to hold a unit they do not control. The office holds it, and only after an application.

“Let’s move this to text, it is easier.” Moving off the platform removes the only record either of you has. A lister with nothing to hide has no reason to want that.

“I am out of the country — my cousin will show you the place.” Nobody who lives in the unit needs a proxy to open the door.

Meeting

Meet at the leasing office in daylight, take somebody with you, and see the actual unit. Ask the office to confirm the lease exists before you apply.

If something feels wrong, report it. You do not need proof and you do not need to be sure.