Renting a place in LA can seem like a challenge, particularly in high-traffic areas such as around USC, downtown, or the West Side. But high demand also entails high risk, and unfortunately, rental scams are very prevalent. A student? Or merely new to the city? Here are some ways that you can avoid getting scammed.

When it looks too good to be true, it most certainly is

A beautiful two-bedroom in a desirable area at $800 per month? There has to be a red flag on that. Criminals do that, placing false advertisements with impressive pictures and ridiculously low prices to attract attention.

Stop and ask why the rent seems so much lower than the market rate in that area. Compare it to similar listings in the area. Follow your intuition; when it is not right, it is not.

Don’t send money until you visit the site

Perhaps the most widespread trick of all is requesting a deposit or the first month’s rent from someone who has not even seen the property. They will indicate that they are out-of-town or that they are unable to meet face to face. Don’t believe it.

Walk away, unless you are able to visualize the location, or even meet a real prospect with whom you can tour. In LA, legitimate landlords and property managers will allow you to sightsee or view the property in person or via an authenticated video tour before demanding payment.

Check the listing and the owner

Dig a little. Look up the listing photos in reverse search to determine if they are displayed on other websites with other information. Go to Google Maps and check what the address is on the map. Is it the same as it was promoted? To make sure that you are dealing with a legitimate person, check the county property records or use reputable websites to check the property owner.

When interacting with a management agency for house rentals, seek official websites, Google reviews, and contact details. Ensure they correspond with those posted to the listing.

Keep yourself composed under pressure

Fraudsters create a feeling of urgency. They will say, ‘I have five other interested parties,’ or, to secure it, you need to put in cash later tonight. Just breathe.

A genuine landlord can allegedly have other potential tenants, yet they will not insist on obtaining their money on an instant basis without any documentation or a legitimate procedure.

When you are being forced to make a quick choice to buy a product, more likely than not, it is a scam, and even more so when there is no written agreement.

Put it all in writing

Obtain a signed lease containing the amount of rent, dates, and clauses prior to making any payment. Ensure that it specifies all your rights and requirements. Avoid paying in cash or some untraceable means, such as Venmo, or using gift cards. Pay using checks, money orders, or more secure payment sites, which will provide some protection.

A key takeaway

Scammers often rely on hasty judgments, bogus offers, and ambiguity. Be alert, question everything, cross-check, and never pay rent without a lease. In a place as large and busy as LA, some caution can save your dollars and your home.