How to recognize a fake rental ad?

Finding a place to rent in Calgary is not an easy task, especially for newcomers or those who are looking for a place to live remotely. One of the biggest threats during your search is fake rental ads, which can lead to significant financial loss and stress. In this article, we'll take a closer look at how to recognize fraudulent ads, what methods criminals use, and how to protect yourself while looking for a place to live.

Why do fake ads appear?

Fraudsters create fake ads to get money or personal data from gullible people. They often offer housing at an extremely favorable price to quickly attract the attention of potential tenants. Attackers can act through popular classifieds sites, social networks, and even send phishing emails.

The main ways of rental fraud

1. Prepayment trick

A common scenario: a fraudster who allegedly owns an apartment says that he is abroad and cannot show the apartment in person. He offers to send the key by mail or through an intermediary, but requires a deposit or prepayment. After the money is transferred, the connection is cut off and no one sends the key.

2. Payment for apartment inspection

In regions with a housing shortage, fraudsters may demand money for being included in the list of applicants or for viewing an apartment that does not actually exist.

3. Phishing emails

Fraudsters send emails on behalf of popular real estate portals asking you to click on a link or open an attachment. This can lead to the theft of personal data or infection of your computer with malware.

4. Use of copied photos and texts

Fake ads often contain photos taken from other sites or directories, as well as texts copied from real ads, but with fake contacts.

Signs of a fake ad

The price is too low

If the rent is significantly lower than the market rate in Calgary, it could be a sign of fraud.

No or poor quality photos

It is not uncommon to use photos of poor quality or from other properties. Refusing to provide additional photos or conduct a video inspection is a suspicious sign.

No personal meeting or inspection of the property

If the owner avoids meeting you and offers only a remote viewing or asks you to transfer money without seeing the property, it is dangerous.

Suspicious contacts

  • Using private email addresses on free services.
  • Mismatched phone numbers or no answer.
  • Contact only through messengers without the ability to call.

Information mismatch

  • Different prices or conditions in one ad.
  • Lack of specific information about the owner or agency.
  • Errors in the text, poor grammar or the use of English in the ad if it is not typical for the area.

How to protect yourself while looking for accommodation?

Check the information

  • Use trusted websites (RentFaster, Kijiji, Realtor.ca).
  • Look up the address of the property on maps to make sure it exists.
  • Check the name of the owner or agency online.

Don't rush to pay

  • Never pay an advance payment without a signed contract.
  • Avoid transfers to personal accounts or through unsecured payment systems.
  • Pay only after meeting in person and inspecting the property.

Ask for a rental agreement

  • Make sure the contract contains all the terms and conditions.
  • Read the contract carefully and consult a lawyer if necessary.

Organize a personal meeting and inspection

  • Ask to see the property in person.
  • If this is not possible, request a live video inspection.

Pay attention to details

  • Pay attention to the style and grammar of the ad.
  • Do not trust too favorable offers.
  • Check reviews about the owner or agency.

What to do if you are a victim of fraud?

  • Immediately contact your bank and ask them to cancel the payment (if possible).
  • File a report with the Calgary Police.
  • Notify the administration of the website where the ad was posted.
  • Contact the Alberta Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) to resolve the dispute.

Conclusion

Finding a home in Calgary can be safe if you follow simple rules and pay attention. Recognizing fake ads will help you avoid financial losses. Use trusted resources, do not rush to pay, ask for a contract and inspect the property in person. If in doubt, contact the appropriate authorities for help.