Why You Should Avoid Fraudulent House Agents (And How to Spot One)

Let’s talk about something serious today on house agents.

We have all heard the stories, and some of us might have even experienced it firsthand. Dealing with a scam agent can leave you frustrated, broke, and even homeless. So, let’s break it down and share some thoughts on why you should avoid them and how to spot one. Keep in mind, these are based on our experiences, so not every point may apply to everyone, but it’s good to stay alert.

1. They Waste Your Time and Money: Fraudulent house agents will keep collecting fees for “inspection,” and disappear into thin air. By the time you realize it’s a scam, your money is gone, and you are back to square one.
2. They Show Poor/Fake Rental Homes: Some house agents will show you beautiful pictures of houses or apartments that don’t even exist. You will go all the way to the location only to find out it’s a different story entirely.
3. They Pressure You to Pay Quickly: Scam house agents will rush you to make payments without giving you time to think or verify the house. They will use phrases like “If you don’t pay now, someone else will take it.” Don’t fall for it…Na today!!
4. They Disappear After Payment: Once they get your money, they will either begin to play hard to get, switch off their phones, block your number, or give you endless excuses. You will be left stranded with no house and no agent to hold accountable.
5. No Office Address or Proper Documentation: A legitimate house agent will have a physical office and proper credentials. If the house agent is only operating through phone calls and WhatsApp, be careful.
6. They Ask for Money Before Showing You the House: Never pay any fees before you have seen the house in person. If they insist on payment upfront, it’s a major red flag.
7. They Avoid Questions or Give Vague Answers: If you ask for details about the house, ownership, or paperwork, and they keep dodging your questions or giving unclear answers, something is fishy.
8. They are Too Good to Be True: If the rent is suspiciously cheap for a property in a high-end area, or if the house agent promises things that sound too good to be true, it’s probably a scam.
9. No Written Agreement or Receipts: A genuine house agent will provide proper documentation, including receipts for payments and a clear agreement. If they refuse to give you anything in writing, run o!
10. They Use High-Pressure Tactics: If they are constantly rushing you to make a decision or pay immediately, it’s a sign they’re trying to scam you. A good agent will give you time to think and verify.

Final Thoughts

While not every house agent is fraudulent, it’s important to stay vigilant and do your due diligence. That’s why we at Rentbetahouse show you verified rental homes, with proper documentation, and a guide to making your payments. If something feels off, we handle it on your behalf with no stress.

At the end of the day, your safety, time, and money are precious. Don’t let a scammer take that away from you, We value you.

Stay smart, stay safe, and always use Rentbetahouse.