Protecting Yourself from Housing Scams

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Buying or renting a place in Stamford should be safe, but there are scams out there. Here’s how to spot them:

What Are the Signs of a Scam?

  • Prices That Are Too Good: If a deal seems too cheap, it’s likely a scam. Scammers use low prices to trick you.
  • Pressure to Hurry: Scammers may say you need to pay fast to get a deal. Take your time, it’s probably a trick.
  • Paying Before Seeing: Never send money before you see the place in person. Scammers often ask for money upfront.
  • Confusing Listings: If you see the same place listed in different spots with different details or prices, be cautious.
  • Bad Spelling or Missing Info: Watch out for listings with mistakes or missing important info like the address. Real ads are clear and correct.

Here Are Safe Ways to Pay

  • Use Safe Methods: Always pay with methods that protect you, like checks or secure online payments. Never use cash, wire transfers, or gift cards.
  • Check Who You’re Dealing With: Research the landlord or seller online to make sure they’re real.
  • Look for Reviews: Read reviews from other renters or buyers to see if others had good experiences.
  • Read Contracts Carefully: Before signing anything, make sure everything promised is written down.

Get Expert Help

  • Use Real Estate Agents: They can show you real places and protect you from scams.
  • Meet in Person: Always meet the landlord and see the place yourself before agreeing to anything.

Tips for Property Owners

  • Watch Your Property Online: Check regularly to make sure scammers aren’t listing your property illegally.
  • Secure Your Property: Install cameras and check your place often to prevent squatters or damage.

Remember these tips using SAFE-T

For an easy way to remember we came up with the acronym SAFE-T to remind you of these key tips:

  • S - See the property before paying any fees or deposits.

     

  • A - Avoid paying in cash or using other non-traceable methods.

     

  • F – Find out ownership and check public records to verify.

     

  • E - Evaluate any pressure to act, move, or pay immediately.

     

  • T - Take caution if the deal seems too good to be true; it probably is.

 

If something seems off, please contact the Stamford Police Department at 203-977-4407.