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Avoid being scammed when securing a room or apartment to rent.

Here’s a few tips on how to try and avoid being scammed when securing a room or apartment to rent.

  1. If you can’t view it in person due to personal reasons: Ask someone you know and trust to view it on your behalf, and make the necessary payments if possible.
  2. Request to do a live video call whereby you can see the person you are communicating with. The recording should start outside of the premises showing the address (house number or building name) moving straight into that specific room or unit.
  3. Avoid paying via send money methods like e-Wallet, Cash Send etc. Only pay into a valid bank account (You can verify with the bank).
  4. Trace the person’s Facebook and any other social media profiles to see if it’s active or recently opened. (New accounts with no profile picture, no bio or no regular posts usually belong to scammers).
  5. Request a lease agreement which includes address and banking details of the landlord or property manager.
  6. If dealing with an agent, ask for their FFC and business address for verification.
  7. Avoid ads that seem too good to be true, like a cottage with built-in cupboards for just R1500 p/m.
  8. Ask for the address of the property without letting the person know that you won’t be able to view it in person.
  9. Never pay anyone who says send money to secure the place before you’ve even viewed it.

NB: The above tips do not guarantee that you will not be scammed. Therefore, be very cautious about attempting to secure any rental property. We do not encourage making payments for properties you have not physically been to. Please apply your own thoughts and make a well informed decision. And also, be alert as scammers are on the rise. Feel free to share your own tips and thoughts in the comments section.

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