Rental Scams on Realtor.com
Realtor.com is operated by Move, Inc. and powered by MLS data, making it one of the most comprehensive rental and home-sale platforms in the US. While MLS integration adds a layer of legitimacy, scammers exploit the platform by listing properties from the for-sale section as fake rentals.
Common Scam Types on Realtor.com
For-Sale-to-Rental Conversion Scams
Scammers copy details from homes listed for sale on Realtor.com and create fraudulent rental listings for the same properties. Because the photos and addresses are real, victims believe the listing is legitimate and send deposits to someone who has no ownership or control of the property.
Fake Property Manager Impersonation
After a renter inquires about a legitimate listing, scammers impersonate the property manager via email using a similar-looking email address. They redirect the victim to send payments to a different account, often claiming the property management company recently changed banks.
Advance Fee Fraud
The scammer requires victims to pay a credit check fee, background check fee, or holding deposit before they can schedule a viewing. After collecting fees from multiple applicants, the scammer disappears and the phone number is disconnected.
Sight-Unseen Rental Pressure
Scammers target out-of-state renters relocating for work, pressuring them to sign a lease and pay a deposit without visiting the property. They claim high demand and limited availability to create urgency.
Safety Tips for Realtor.com
- ✓Cross-reference the property on Realtor.com to check if it is listed for sale -- a property listed for both sale and rent is a red flag.
- ✓Verify the property manager's contact details through the management company's official website, not the listing.
- ✓Never pay fees before viewing the property in person or through a video tour with a verified contact.
- ✓Search the property address on the county assessor's website to confirm ownership details.
- ✓Be wary of landlords who pressure you to act quickly without giving you time to verify the listing.
How to Report Scams on Realtor.com
Click 'Report a Problem' on the listing page to flag suspicious content. You can also contact Realtor.com's customer support team.
Report a Scam →Realtor.com Scam Risk Level
Medium RiskRealtor.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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