Rental Scams on Apartments.com
Apartments.com is a major US rental listing platform owned by CoStar Group, featuring millions of listings from verified property managers and individual landlords. While the platform has stronger verification than classifieds sites, scammers still target renters by impersonating listed properties or redirecting communication off-platform.
Common Scam Types on Apartments.com
Impersonation of Verified Properties
Scammers contact renters who have inquired about legitimate listings on Apartments.com, posing as the property manager through email or text. They offer a special deal or early move-in discount in exchange for an immediate deposit sent to an external payment account.
Duplicate Listing Scams
Fraudsters copy photos and descriptions from real Apartments.com listings and create new listings for the same property under a different contact. Victims who respond to the duplicate listing deal with the scammer instead of the actual property manager.
Fake Move-In Specials
Scam listings advertise aggressive move-in specials like waived deposits or first-month-free deals to generate urgency. When victims rush to secure the deal, they are asked to pay a holding fee or reduced deposit that goes straight to the scammer.
Phishing Through Fake Application Links
The scammer sends victims a link to a fake application portal that closely mimics the Apartments.com interface. Victims enter their Social Security number, bank details, and other personal information that the scammer then uses for identity theft.
Safety Tips for Apartments.com
- ✓Only communicate through the Apartments.com platform messaging system to maintain a verifiable record.
- ✓Never click external application links sent via email -- always apply through the Apartments.com website directly.
- ✓Verify the property management company's name and phone number independently before paying.
- ✓Be cautious of move-in specials that seem unusually generous compared to similar properties.
- ✓Visit the property in person and confirm the leasing office matches the listing details.
- ✓Check for duplicate listings of the same property with different contact information.
How to Report Scams on Apartments.com
Report suspicious listings by clicking the 'Report this Listing' option on the property page. You can also contact Apartments.com customer support directly.
Report a Scam →Apartments.com Scam Risk Level
Medium RiskApartments.com is rated as medium risk for rental scams. While the platform has some verification measures, scammers still find ways to exploit the system. Always verify listings and landlords independently before paying anything.
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