Rental Scams on RentFaster
RentFaster is a Canadian rental listing platform headquartered in Calgary, primarily serving Alberta and expanding across other provinces. The platform offers both free and paid listing tiers for landlords. While smaller than Kijiji, RentFaster's focus on rentals means it attracts a dedicated audience, but also dedicated scammers.
Common Scam Types on RentFaster
Fake Landlord Listings
Scammers create accounts on RentFaster and list properties they do not own, often using photos from real estate listings. They collect e-Transfer deposits from multiple victims for the same non-existent rental before the account is flagged.
Too-Good-to-Be-True Pricing
In Alberta's competitive rental market, scammers post listings significantly below market rate to attract desperate renters. The listing may target newcomers or students unfamiliar with local pricing, who rush to secure the seemingly great deal.
Application Fee Scams
Fake landlords charge non-refundable application or credit check fees before any viewing or verification. They collect fees from many applicants for a listing that was never real, profiting from the application process itself.
Pet-Friendly Listing Scams
In markets where pet-friendly rentals are scarce, scammers specifically target pet owners by listing pet-friendly properties at competitive prices. Pet owners, frustrated by limited options, may act too quickly and pay deposits without proper verification.
Safety Tips for RentFaster
- ✓View the property in person before sending any money, including application fees.
- ✓Verify property ownership through Alberta Land Titles or the relevant provincial registry.
- ✓Be cautious of listings priced far below comparable units in the same area.
- ✓Ask for the landlord's government-issued ID and verify it matches ownership records.
- ✓Never send Interac e-Transfers to someone you have not met in person at the property.
How to Report Scams on RentFaster
Contact RentFaster's support team to report suspicious listings. File a report with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre for any financial losses.
Report a Scam →RentFaster Scam Risk Level
Medium RiskRentFaster 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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