Real Estate Scams

Protect yourself from rental fraud, fake property listings, and mortgage scams. Learn the warning signs before you lose money.

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How Real Estate Scams Work

Real estate scams target people looking to rent or buy properties, often exploiting the urgency and emotional investment involved in finding housing. Scammers typically advertise attractive properties at below-market prices to lure victims into sending money before proper verification.

These scams are particularly effective because they prey on people's basic need for shelter and often target those in vulnerable situations, such as people relocating for work or students looking for housing.

Common Examples

Fake Rental Listings
Scammers post attractive rental properties at below-market prices, collect deposits, then disappear.
Advance Fee Mortgage Scams
Fraudsters promise guaranteed mortgage approval for upfront fees, then provide nothing in return.
Property Investment Fraud
Fake investment opportunities in non-existent or overvalued properties with guaranteed returns.
Moving Company Scams
Fraudulent moving companies hold belongings hostage for additional payments beyond the original quote.

Warning Signs

  • Rental prices significantly below market value
  • Landlord requests payment before viewing property
  • Property owner claims to be out of town/country
  • Requests for wire transfers or gift card payments
  • Pressure to sign lease or send money immediately
  • Poor quality or limited photos of the property
  • Landlord refuses to meet in person or show property

How to Protect Yourself

  • Research property ownership through public records
  • Visit properties in person before making payments
  • Use secure payment methods, never wire money to strangers
  • Verify landlord/agent credentials and licenses
  • Get all agreements in writing with proper documentation
  • Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true
  • Use reputable real estate websites and agents

What to Do If You've Been Scammed

  1. Stop all communication with the scammer immediately
  2. Contact your bank to report fraudulent transactions
  3. File a police report with your local law enforcement
  4. Report to the FTC and FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center
  5. Contact your state's real estate commission if a licensed agent was involved
  6. Document everything - save all communications and transaction records

How to Report Real Estate Scams

Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

Report real estate and rental fraud

Report to FTC
FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center

File complaints about online real estate fraud

Report to IC3

Need More Help?

Explore our other resources or contact government agencies for additional support.

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