Learn how to spot rental scams in Alberta before it’s too late. Discover red flags like bait-and-switch tactics, phishing schemes, and how to avoid falling victim to fraudulent listings.

Rental Scams in Alberta: Red Flags and How to Spot Them

You’re searching for a new place to rent in Alberta. The prices seem almost too good to be true. But before you send that deposit, make sure it’s not a scam. Rental scams are on the rise in the province. These cons prey on people urgently looking for housing. They bank on you overlooking red flags in your rush to secure an affordable rental. Don’t let them trick you. Arm yourself by learning the common tricks these scammers use. Read on to discover the red flags so you can avoid rental scams. With some savvy, you can find a legitimate rental without getting duped.

7 Rental Scams in Alberta 

Bait and switch

The classic bait and switch is when scammers advertise a nice rental property at an affordable price to lure you in, but when you show up the place is nothing like the ad. They pressure you into signing a lease for an overpriced dump. Always see the unit in person before signing anything.

Phishing for personal information

Some scammers will ask for personal information like your SIN or credit card number as part of a “rental application.” Never provide sensitive data before signing a lease and meeting the landlord.

Demanding cash upfront

Legitimate landlords will not ask for several months of rent in cash before you’ve even signed a lease. This is a major red flag that the “landlord” plans to take your money and run.

Too good to be true

If a rental seems way below market value, it’s probably a scam. Do some research on average rent in the area to determine if the price seems realistic. Very low prices are often bait to lure in unsuspecting renters.

By being vigilant and aware of the common scams, you can avoid becoming a victim. Always see the place in person, never pay anything upfront, and trust your instincts — if something feels off about a listing, walk away. With the crazy rental market, the temptation may be there, but don’t get reeled into a scam. Do your homework and stay safe!

Major Red Flags of a Rental Scam

Rental scams are unfortunately common these days, but the good news is there are usually some telltale signs that something’s not right.

The price seems too good to be true.

If an ad boasts an amazing price for a gorgeous, spacious place, that should raise some eyebrows. Scammers often try to lure people in with unrealistically low prices. Trust your gut on this one.

They want money upfront.

Legitimate landlords will never ask for a security deposit, first month’s rent or any other fees before you’ve seen the place. Scammers will try to get your money quickly before you realize something’s off. Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person.

Common Rental Scams to Watch Out for in Alberta

They can’t show you the unit. 

The landlord insists they can’t show you the listing in person and has an excuse as to why: “I’m out of the country.” “The current tenant refuses to let you see it.” “I live out of the area and cannot meet with you.” The list goes on. Not everyone who rents a property lives near it, so understand if a landlord says they don’t live in the area. However, legitimate landlords should be able to at least have someone meet you at the property to let you see it before you agree to move forward. 

The listing has no details. 

If the listing is sparse on details and lacks specifics such as square footage or interior photos, it may be a scam. Give them the 3rd degree about their property: How many bedrooms and bathrooms are there? What’s the square footage? Are pets allowed? Where is it located? There are a lot of legitimate reasons why a landlord might not have photos of their rental or in-depth information about the listing. For example, the scammers may be posing as the lienholder of a property. A lienholder can’t know the exact state of a property without inspecting it, so they won’t be able to answer questions about the rental. Always insist on specifics before you agree to move forward with a rental. 

Here’s the bottom line: 

If something doesn’t feel right, move on to the next listing. There are a lot of legitimate rentals out there. And it’s always better to be safe than sorry! 

How to Avoid Rental Fraud  

Never wire money or pay rent before seeing the property in person. Legitimate landlords will never ask you to send money before you’ve had a chance to view the property in person. Only submit payment after you have personally met the landlord, signed a lease agreement, and viewed the actual unit. 

Research similar properties in the area

Deals that seem too good to be true are often exactly that. You may be able to find below-market value opportunities, but they may require a lot of extra legwork and the deal will rarely be as cheap as it sounds. 

Make use of trusted online resources

Always find properties for rent in Alberta from trusted sources such as gskproperties.com. All the properties listed here are verified properties with affordable rates. All properties are well maintained with best in class rental experience. 

Check the average rent around the area. 

If the rent for the apartment that you are considering is much less than the average price for similar properties in the area, you will be able to identify that it is likely a scam. 

It’s always best to be on the safe side. You can find another rental. If you listen to your instincts, you can avoid falling for a typical rental scam. 

By remaining cautious and understanding these common rental scams, you can avoid much of the risk. Always visit the rental in person, never pay anything in advance, and trust your instincts – if the price or listing seems too good to be true, it’s probably a scam. With the madness of the rental market, the urge may be strong, but don’t fall for it. A little research goes a long way in this game.