Finding a rental home in Metro Vancouver is tough enough without worrying about scams. Unfortunately, September is one of the peak times for rental fraud—students are returning to school, newcomers are arriving, and scammers know the demand is high.
As a REALTOR®, I’ve seen this firsthand. More than once, I’ve received calls from renters who found my real listings copied and reposted on Craigslist as fake rental ads. Scammers take legitimate property photos, lower the price, and try to lure desperate renters into sending money upfront. It’s frustrating for renters and damaging to trust in our housing market.
Here’s what you need to know so you (or someone you know) don’t get caught.
Common Rental Scam Tactics
The Price is Too Good to Be True
If a 2-bedroom condo in Burnaby is listed for $1,200/month, alarm bells should go off. Scammers often post at well below market rent to attract quick interest.
No In-Person Viewing Allowed
A genuine landlord or agent will let you tour the property. Scammers often say they’re “out of town” or “too busy,” and insist you can just drive by or view pictures.
High-Pressure Deposit Requests
You’ll be asked to e-transfer or wire money quickly—sometimes even before seeing a lease. Once the money is sent, it’s gone.
Strange Communication
Emails full of spelling errors, requests to only text, or landlords unwilling to answer simple questions are all red flags.
Copied Listings
Scammers steal photos from legitimate Realtor.ca, Zillow, or MLS listings. If you see the same property listed in multiple places with different prices, be cautious.
How to Protect Yourself
Verify the Landlord or Agent: Ask for identification and cross-check their name with property records or a licensed Realtor database.
Always Tour in Person: Never sign or pay for a place you haven’t walked through.
Don’t Send Money Upfront: Deposits should only be made after signing a legitimate lease.
Search the Address: See if the property is already listed for sale or rent elsewhere—it could be a clue that it’s being misused.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it usually is.
I always tell renters this: If you’re unsure about a listing, ask a REALTOR® to check it for you. I’d much rather confirm a property is real than hear about another person who lost their hard-earned money to a scam.
Metro Vancouver’s rental market is competitive, and scammers prey on urgency. By staying cautious, you can avoid falling into their trap.
Final Word
Rental scams are unfortunately part of today’s housing landscape, but with awareness and vigilance, you can protect yourself. Share this information with students, newcomers, or anyone you know looking for a place this fall—it could save them thousands.
And remember, whether you’re renting, buying, or selling, I’m always here as a trusted local resource.
Ralph Tsai | Your Metro Vancouver REALTOR®