Searching for student housing in Barrie (or elsewhere)? Our guide ensures that you avoid rental scams and deal with a credible company.
Finding a place to live while studying can be exciting and challenging. As a student, you want a safe, comfortable place that feels like home. However, rental scams can turn this exciting process into a nightmare. In this blog, we will discuss common rental scams, how to spot them, and how to protect yourself. We’ll also cover signs of bad landlords and tips to ensure you’re renting from a reputable one.
Common Rental Scams
1. The Phantom Listing Scam
One of the most common scams is the phantom listing, where scammers post ads for properties that do not exist or are not available for rent. They usually offer attractive rent prices to lure you in and then ask for money upfront for deposits or application fees. Once you pay, they disappear.
2. The Too-Good-To-Be-True Deal
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers often advertise beautiful properties at ridiculously low prices. They might claim they’re out of town and can’t show the property in person but will ask you to send money to secure the deal.
3. The Overpayment Scam
In this scam, a supposed tenant or landlord will send you a check for more than the required amount and ask you to wire back the difference. The original check will bounce, and you’ll lose the money you wired.
How to Spot Rental Scams
1. Request for Money Upfront
Be wary if the landlord asks for money before you have even seen the property. Legitimate landlords will want to show you the property first.
2. No In-Person Meetings
If the landlord refuses to meet you in person or show you the property, it’s a red flag. Genuine landlords will want to meet potential tenants.
3. Unverifiable Listings
Scammers often use photos and descriptions from other legitimate listings. Conduct a reverse image search of the property photos to see if they appear on other websites.
4. Pressure to Act Quickly
Scammers will try to rush you into making a decision. They’ll claim there are other interested tenants to pressure you into sending money quickly.
Protecting Yourself Against Rental Scams
1. Research the Property and Landlord
Use online resources to research the property address and the landlord. Check for reviews or complaints about them.
2. Visit the Property
Always visit the property in person before making any payments. This helps you verify that the property exists and is in good condition.
3. Use Reputable Websites
Use well-known rental websites that offer protections against scams. These websites often have verification processes to ensure listings are legitimate.
4. Don’t Send Money Without Verification
Never send money without verifying the legitimacy of the listing and the landlord. Legitimate transactions will involve formal lease agreements and verifiable contact information.
Signs of a Bad Landlord or Rental Company
1. Poor Communication
If the landlord or rental company is difficult to reach or unresponsive to your queries, it’s a sign they might not be reliable. Good landlords are accessible and willing to address your concerns.
2. Lack of Proper Documentation
A good landlord will provide a written lease agreement outlining the terms of your rental. If they are hesitant to provide this or insist on verbal agreements, it’s a warning sign.
3. Neglect of Property Maintenance
If the property is poorly maintained or repairs are delayed, it indicates the landlord might not be responsible. Pay attention to the condition of the property during your visit.
4. Unclear Policies
A reliable landlord will have clear policies regarding rent payment, maintenance requests, and other tenant responsibilities. If these policies are vague or not provided, it’s a red flag.
Verifying a Good Landlord or Rental Company
1. Check Reviews and References
Look for reviews of the landlord or rental company online. Websites like Yelp or Google Reviews can provide insights from previous tenants. You can also ask the landlord for references from past tenants.
2. Verify Their Identity
Ask for identification and contact information. Verify this information independently to ensure it matches the landlord or company’s public records.
3. Inspect the Lease Agreement
A good lease agreement should clearly outline the terms and conditions of your rental, including rent amount, payment schedule, maintenance responsibilities, and rules for common areas. Review it thoroughly and ask questions if anything is unclear.
4. Visit the Property Multiple Times
Visit the property at different times of the day to get a better sense of the neighborhood and the property’s condition. This can help you spot any potential issues that weren’t apparent during your first visit.
Trustworthy Rooms for Rent in Barrie Near Georgian College
Renting a home as a student can be daunting, but you can avoid scams and bad landlords with the right precautions.
Georgian Green offers fully furnished, private rooms for rent in Barrie near Georgian College.
Our application and housing agreement signing process is completely digital, which is both convenient and safe! We don’t accept e-transfer or wire transfer payments, instead opting for certified cheques, money orders, or, in person, via debit or credit cards. This ensures that everything is completely secure.
We’ve been providing student housing in Barrie for many years and we’re happy to accept visitors. Our office staff are here to answer any questions you might have, so contact us today via email or phone, or stop by the office between 9AM and 4PM, Monday through Friday.
Contact us today to arrange for a tour of the facilities and see for yourself why we are a Georgian residence of choice!
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