The scam patterns that target relocating renters, and the checks that stop them before money moves.
How to Avoid Rental Scams When Relocating
The patterns that catch relocating renters, and the checks that stop them.
Rental fraud targets people who cannot easily drop by, which is precisely the position you are in when relocating for work. The patterns are consistent enough to be worth memorizing.
The warning signs
Urgency
‘Send the deposit today or lose it.’ A real unit survives the time it takes to verify.
Payment method
Wire transfers, gift cards and personal payment apps are not how legitimate managers collect deposits.
A price that stands out
Well below comparable units in the same area is a warning, not a bargain.
No verifiable company
If you cannot independently confirm the manager, its phone number and its address, stop.
Keys before a lease
Nobody should mail keys or a code in exchange for cash before an application and signed lease.
Reluctance to show the unit
Excuses about why you cannot tour the specific apartment are a red flag on their own.
Not sure whether a listing is legitimate? Ask us before you send anything.
Your verification checklist
- Confirm the management company independently, not through the listing
- Tour the specific unit — self-guided, video or in person
- Apply through the manager’s own official application system
- Never wire funds or pay by gift card or personal payment app
- Read the lease in full before paying anything
- Keep every communication in writing
Frequently asked questions
What if I have already sent money?
Contact your bank or payment provider immediately, and report it to the relevant consumer protection authorities.
Are scams common on legitimate listing sites?
Fraudulent listings appear on mainstream platforms too. The verification steps matter regardless of where you found it.
Related guides
Remote leasing
From another state
Memphis relocation guide
Documents needed
Ask Lia
Lia is ELM Property Management’s leasing assistant. If a listing looks wrong to you, ask us before you act on it. Send your question through our contact page, email info@elmpropertymanagement.com, or call 901-350-5502, and a member of our team will follow up.
Renting from out of town?
Work from our live listings and ask us anything before money moves.
ELM Property Management is an independent property management company and is not affiliated with any employer, hospital, university, government agency, or contractor referenced on this page.