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Military Members Warned of Rental Scams During Moves

Thursday, July 16, 2026 · 2 sources

Rental scams can add to the stress of a military move. There are steps that can be taken to spot these scams.

Military moves can be both exciting and stressful, whether planned for months or dealing with last-minute orders. The last thing needed is a rental scam to raise that stress level. Rental scams can be a significant problem for military members who are relocating.

To avoid falling victim to a rental scam, it's essential to be aware of the warning signs. These can include listings that seem too good to be true, such as a low rent for a large or luxurious property.

Another warning sign is a request for a deposit or rent payment before seeing the property or signing a lease. Legitimate landlords typically do not ask for payment before the tenant has seen the property and signed a lease.

It's also crucial to research the property and the landlord thoroughly. This can include checking online reviews, contacting the local Better Business Bureau, and verifying the landlord's identity.

Additionally, be wary of listings that use poor grammar or contain spelling mistakes, as these can be indicative of a scam.

By being aware of these warning signs and taking steps to research and verify the property and landlord, military members can reduce their risk of falling victim to a rental scam during their move.

Go Deeper

What are some common warning signs of a rental scam?

Common warning signs include listings that seem too good to be true, requests for payment before seeing the property or signing a lease, and poor grammar or spelling mistakes in the listing.

How can I research a potential landlord?

You can research a potential landlord by checking online reviews, contacting the local Better Business Bureau, and verifying the landlord's identity.

What should I do if I suspect a rental listing is a scam?

If you suspect a rental listing is a scam, do not respond to it or send any money. Instead, report it to the website or platform where you found the listing and contact local authorities if necessary.

Are there any resources available to help military members find safe and legitimate rental properties?

Yes, there are resources available to help military members find safe and legitimate rental properties, such as the Department of Defense's Housing website and local military housing offices.

Can I trust online rental listings?

Not all online rental listings are trustworthy. It's essential to be cautious and do your research before responding to a listing or sending any money.