Common Rental Scams and How to Avoid Them

Renting an apartment is both an exciting and stressful time.

Living on your own creates a sense of independence. Yet, finding the right apartment can be tricky. With so much housing information out there, how can you tell what’s legitimate and worth pursuing? Here are some of the most common rental scams to look out for and how to avoid them.

1. The Listing Is Duplicated

Some scammers will copy an actual listing and just add in their contact information. They may even significantly lower the price. Most of the time, they will ask for a deposit before showing you the property. When you ask to visit the space, they may claim the landlord is out of town or has a family emergency.

So, to avoid this scam, make sure to see the property first, even though a virtual tour. Also, don’t give away any money until you have viewed it. To verify the listing is legit, look on other websites to see if you can find that listing somewhere else. Be sure to search in other cities as well.

Another way to prevent this type of scam is to read the listing carefully. If you notice there is no exact address or the listing asks for payment through a wire transfer, these are red flags.

2.  There Is No Lease Agreement

A lease is an essential part of the rental process and acts as a formal contract. Many apartments require at least a year-long lease. So, if you ask for the rental agreement, and the lister refuses to provide one, it could indicate a scam. Before renting any property, be sure to sign a lease agreement.

Then, read the document carefully. Keep in mind it should include key information, such as the residence’s address and the landlord’s name. It should also mention when the lease was signed and the dates of the rental period. Also, look to ensure any details about deposits are clearly defined.

3.  There Is an Expensive Background Check

Landlords will often conduct background checks to screen tenants. They want to ensure the people moving in are a good fit and aren’t hiding any personal information. Background checks usually look at your employment history and credit score.

However, if the fee seems too high, it can raise a red flag. A typical background check costs between $30-$50 and is often part of the rental application fee. To help avoid this scam, don’t give cash on-the-spot for the background check. Also, find a reputable real estate agent or broker. They can help point out if something is off during the rental process.

To find a real estate agent, start within your network and ask for referrals. Before hiring one, do some research and look into their social media and consumer ratings. You can also check out real estate brokerage companies and referral agents. Ensure your realtor has years of experience, relevant certifications, and marketing skills.

4.  The Property Is Priced Suspiciously Low

Finding a perfect deal is a huge factor when comparing listings. However, if the price seems too good to be true, it just might be. Any listing below the local market value is usually a warning sign.

Scammers may also ask for the security deposit and first month’s rent upfront. So, do your research and compare the apartments with other local listings. This will give you a better idea of the market trends in your area.

Also, consider the value of the amenities to determine whether the pricing is reasonable. Many scammers will lift key features from already posted listings to attract tenets.

5.  The Owner Isn’t the One Hosting the Property Tour

While there may be times when the owner cannot show the property, this is something to look out for. Pay attention to how much information the host can provide. If they can’t answer specific questions about the application process or lease terms, this is a bad sign. Another key indicator is if they don’t have access to certain parts of the property.

To avoid this scam, perform background research on the landlord. Check your local public ownership records. Search for the property’s address and verify the landlord listed matches your information. Another good source to consult is the neighbors of the residence.

Scams Every Renter Should Look Out For

When it comes to leasing an apartment, there are so many moving parts. First, you have to find a local listing and then sign all the paperwork. Along the way, you want to look out for potential phishers. As you search for your dream home, keep in mind these common rental scams and tips for avoiding them.

Keep reading on Renovated.com

Related Links

• What’s Causing Ongoing Home Price Appreciation?

• Budget-Friendly Renovations for New Homeowners

• Using Your AC All Summer? Here are 4 Things You Should Never Do to Keep Your Central AC Unit Running Smoothly

If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

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Using Your AC All Summer? Here are 4 Things You Should Never Do to Keep Your Central AC Unit Running Smoothly

In the summer there might be nothing more important than your AC unit keeping you cool, but for it to treat you well, it needs some basic care.

While it may seem like your unit can handle anything, even on 100-degree days summer after summer, there are a few expert tips on exactly what you should not do to your central AC unit. Avoiding these moves will keep your AC working well, and prevent you from encountering costly repairs and issues right when you need it the most.

Here are the four things you should avoid doing to your central AC unit.

Trying out DIY projects

While you might feel like the ultimate DIYer, some projects should be left to the pros, and this is one of them. Traci Fournier, the vice president of operations at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning cautions against this, saying, “ACs are intricate cooling systems with delicate parts that need to be handled carefully and with the proper tools. Should you try to DIY an AC problem and open the unit on your own, you might end up making a wrong move that could cost you hundreds of dollars.” Additionally, opening it yourself might void the system’s warranty, depending on the terms. Instead, a licensed and trusted AC expert should be the only one opening your unit.

Another common no-no Fournier sees people try is attempting to fix a refrigerant leak, the fluid that helps transfer heat and humidity out of your home, which can happen in the hotter months when the temperature spikes. “The AC’s refrigerant is under high pressure and the refrigerant lines will deteriorate over time due to this pressure. Refrigerant leaks also tend to happen when other issues are going on in your AC and it’s important to have an AC tech examine your entire system to catch other problems. If your system has a refrigerant leak, it will need to be professionally patched and recharged, which should be left to an expert.”

Forgetting to change the filter

We get it — it’s the last thing on your mind. But changing the air filter is a must for safe and optimal efficiency with your AC unit. It can help to set a reminder in your calendar, or pair it with another task such as spring cleaning and back to school, depending on how frequently your unit needs a new filter. 

“This is a year-round job. The air filter is designed to capture particulate matter from the indoor environment by forcing air through the filter,” Fournier says. “To be effective, the filter must be dense enough to collect very small items but not so dense to restrict airflow and potentially damage the AC. Different types of filters need to be changed at different intervals.”

To determine how long yours will last, check if you need a disposable filter (usually an inch in size), designed to last one month, or another type that can last three months — even those should be frequently checked because they can clog up early. Extended service filters that are 2 inches or greater can typically be changed out as needed. It all depends on the different factors of your home, such as the number of people, the season, pets, and how often you use it, shares Fournier.

“When the AC filter becomes clogged with dust, dirt, pet hair, and other particles, it reduces airflow to your system, forcing it to work harder. This puts a drag on your energy efficiency, which drives up your energy bills and also wears out AC components faster,” she adds. So it’s time to make it a priority, and you will literally breathe easier.

Setting the temperature too low

Sure, it’s hot out. But lowering the temperature too far will put excessive pressure on your unit. It also won’t necessarily cool your home any faster, despite popular belief, Fournier says. 

The Air Conditioning Contractors of America’s standard is 75 degrees for cooling, which is typically comfortable for most people, shares Fournier. “Operating your system at lower temperatures will use more electricity and, in some cases, could cause the system to freeze up. If you have the desire to operate your system below this standard, you should consult a professional.”

Fournier recommends getting a smart or programmable thermostat to create a custom cooling schedule around your routine. This will save you energy without putting extra stress on your AC unit. You should also consider seeking other ways to cool down in the summer that won’t permanently impact your AC unit.

Neglecting annual maintenance

Just like your child’s yearly wellness checkup at the pediatrician or your dentist appointments, AC units need annual maintenance if you want them to last as long as they can. If not, your unit will eventually malfunction, leading to expensive repairs that could have been avoided through preventative maintenance. Your AC expert will clean dirty coils, unclog condensate drains, remove debris around the unit, and verify that system controls are working properly, among other tasks, Fournier says.

For more tips like this, visit Apartment Therapy.

Related Links

• What’s Causing Ongoing Home Price Appreciation?

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If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

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3 Unexpected Hot Markets For Real Estate In The US

The ever-changing housing market brought us many surprises, but the demand for homes in “unexpected” places is recently popping up across the country.

Homebuyers are less interested in properties from hot markets in California or Florida. Instead, they’re looking at Indiana, New Hampshire, and Connecticut.

What attracts homebuyers to these areas? Let’s explore what these three states have to offer out-of-state homebuyers and which cities are popular within the states.

Indiana: Cheap prices
According to realtor.com, Elkhart, Lafayette and Fort Wayne make up three out of four cheapest markets in this ranking, offering median home prices much lower than average, which has attracted many out-of-state buyers. The average prices for homes in these three markets are $300,000, and the cost of living is much lower than in other popular cities.

New Hampshire: No state taxes
New Hampshire towns of Manchester, Concord and Claremont have drawn the attention of out-of-state homebuyers due to the state’s lower cost of living and no income or sales taxes. Before the pandemic, New Hampshire was a popular tourist destination and home for most retirees. However, the pandemic and the rise of work-from-home culture have resulted in more out-of-state buyers buying second homes and other investors looking for properties for short and long-term rentals.

Connecticut: ‘Affordable’ commute 
The small state of Connecticut brings areas such as Hartford, Norwich and New Haven to the top of the hot market list. New Haven, in particular, climbed 162 spots in May and made the 18th ranking on realtor.com’s list. While home prices in New Haven are slightly more expensive than those in Indiana and New Hampshire, homebuyers have the advantage of living near large employment centers and cities.

New Haven is halfway between Hartford and New York City, at the intersection of I-95 and I-91 highways, and on the Long Island Sound. For most homebuyers aiming to work in major cities, a home in New Haven is the best of both worlds regarding affordable housing and good commute time.

Affordability is trending
These popular and “unexpected” housing markets show a common thread of affordability. High-priced options like California have been replaced as popular markets by more affordable locations in the country’s midwestern and northeastern areas. The average listing price of the 20 hottest markets was $374,000 in May 2022, which falls 16.3% lower than the national median.

On this list of May 2022 markets, Connecticut and Indiana tie for having the most markets within the state, each with three ranked locales. Wisconsin and other midwestern locations were also well-represented on the list.

Not only are homebuyers looking for affordability for their home, but we have also seen a growing interest in affordable beach markets. For example, Atlantic City, New Jersey; Deerfield Beach, Florida; and New London, Connecticut have all topped affordable beach lists. Each spot has a median home price below $300,000.

Those interested in leaving the hustle of city life behind have been drawn to the following small towns for their affordability: Elk City, Oklahoma; Albert Lea, Minnesota; and Jamestown, North Dakota. These towns offer the median home price of under $250,000.

The theme of affordability can be seen across different aspects of the real estate market as homebuyers closely examine prices while making their purchases.

How does this help you?
As a real estate agent, staying up-to-date with market trends can help boost your credibility and make it easier for you to engage and help your clients. You will feel more empowered to market yourself to different types of buyers because you will better understand what drives them. You can demonstrate to them that you are committed to being the agent that will help them find their dream home.

Get more like this on RISMedia.

Related Links

• What’s Causing Ongoing Home Price Appreciation?

• Budget-Friendly Renovations for New Homeowners

• What Is a Rent-Back Agreement?

If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

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Budget-Friendly Renovations for New Homeowners

You’ve got the keys – and the mortgage. Now it’s time to create the home of your dreams on a budget that works for you.

You did it! Somehow, in the midst of the current market, you not only found a place you love, but you actually bought your first house! 

First, congratulations. That’s amazing. 

As you revel in those first moments in your new home, you may have noticed that, awesome as it is, it does not come with all the sequenced “sign here” tabs that dominated recent days. You are in choose-your-own adventure territory now. 

This may feel fantastic or terrifying or some combination thereof. 

In an effort to help you experience more of the former and less of the latter, we checked in with experts who shared some fast and affordable ways to make your home your own. So take a deep breath, put your feet up on the nearest box and decide what’s next – and what’s best – for you. 

(DEEP) CLEAN UP 

Perhaps now more than ever, cleaning your new home is essential. 

If you can make the schedule work, it’s ideal to clean before you move in, notes Kit Selzer, Home Editor at Better Homes & Gardens. Not only will it be faster not to work around furniture or boxes, she writes, but it’s easier to reach ceiling fans and light fixtures with a ladder before a bed or table is in place. What’s more, you don’t have to worry about your furniture and rugs getting dirty in the process, she notes.

If cleaning before you move in isn’t possible, Selzer advises making cleaning the first step in unpacking, suggesting that before you fill cabinets and closets, you wipe them down or use a vacuum attachment. 

“Whether you’re cleaning before you move in or as you go, always clean a room from the top down,” she writes. “Start by dusting ceiling-mounted lights, along the ceiling line, and around window frames. Finish by wiping baseboards and sweeping or vacuuming floors.”

CHECK YOUR PRIORITIES

When prioritizing the updates you’d like to make, the projects at the top of your list may not be the “fun” ones, Selzer observes. 

“Think about things like safety and overall upkeep first,” she explains. “If the inspection uncovered any structural issues or if you’re concerned about the HVAC giving out or the roof leaking, that’s where you need to put your money.”

After structural or mechanical updates, Selzer notes, you may want to focus on projects that pay off right away when it comes to daily convenience. 

As Monique Valeris, Senior Home Editor for Good Housekeeping puts it: “There are a slew of projects that can help make your everyday life easier while adding character to your home. Can you carve out a makeshift mudroom with a simple storage bench and wall hooks? Instead of splurging on new kitchen cabinets, can you opt to paint them and rethink how they’re organized instead? Considering your biggest pain points is a great place to start.”

As you work – Selzer notes that some people recommend going room by room, starting with the one requiring the least amount of work and money – you may find value in holding off on some major renovations at first. 

“For big projects, like remodeling a kitchen, it’s a good idea to live in your house a while first,” Selzer writes. “Get a feel for how you ideally want to use the space and make notes about what you’d like to change. Pay attention to things like when the sunlight comes through the windows and if you need more windows or light fixtures.”

PLAY WITH COLOR 

“Paint, paint, paint,” writes Valeris. “You’d be surprised how much a fresh coat of paint can dramatically change the look of a space. Whether you consider painting your front door or an entire room, it’s a great way to add a jolt of personality to your home.”

ART WORKS (EVEN THE CHEAP STUFF!) 

Besides painting, artwork can offer an affordable (no, really!) way to make your house truly yours. “I’ve purchased prints from sites like Etsy and Society6, framed posters that I’ve found at museum gift shops and have even had luck at flea markets,” Valeris writes. “Plus, it’s easy enough to find budget-friendly frames to make your wall art stand out and you can easily switch up your arrangement seasonally or whenever the mood strikes.”

Looking for an even more budget-friendly – not to mention unique – option? Look around you. “Decorate with items that have personal meaning,” Selzer suggests. “You can put just about anything in a readymade frame or shadow box: a favorite scarf, your grandmother’s handwritten recipe, a page from a vintage book.”

IT’S A JOURNEY, NOT A SPRINT

After the initial flurry of activity, you may well wish to take a nap. The chore you executed with gusto during your first weekend of being a homeowner may now languish. It’s understandable.

Still, you want to keep your home at its best while still being kind to your budget. Valeris suggests paying attention to small details that make an impact. Consider upgrading simple things – from doorknobs to curtain rods, light switch covers to faucets – to make your space more stylish and give it a modern flair, she writes. 

Landscaping matters too. “This doesn’t have to cost thousands of dollars,” she writes. “You can find plants that are fit for your region as well as low-maintenance options that don’t require a ton of water to thrive and add charm to your home.”

(Case in point: Some of my favorite perennials are irises my mom shared with me after dividing hers. And you know where she got hers? The dump!)  

Finally, embrace light. Valeris notes that the right balance of overhead, task and accent lighting can make your space feel warm and inviting.

REMEMBER YOUR BOTTOM LINE

In the midst of projects big and small, keep an eye on your budget. 

As Valeris writes, “not everyone has the bandwidth or means to take on a gut renovation, so think about more manageable upgrades that can still make a difference in your home.” 

Meanwhile, Selzer notes that when you’re a homeowner, there are additional expenses you probably didn’t have when you were renting, such as utilities, general maintenance, and unexpected repairs. 

Furthermore, taxes and insurance are among the money questions often overlooked after the closing occurs, according to Elaine King, president and CEO of Family and Money Matters.

So pace yourself. You don’t need to make every update you imagined your first weekend, or your first year. As Valeris puts it: “Stay true to your budget and lifestyle.”

Get more tips like this on Her Money.

Related Links

• What’s Causing Ongoing Home Price Appreciation?

• The nation’s housing market is on a correction course

• What Is a Rent-Back Agreement?

If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

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Planning could get underway for new open space in northern Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs parks officials are looking to formalize land that they've seen as a risky free-for-all since adding it to the public trust.

In the city's northern foothills, Blodgett Open Space's original 167 acres nearly doubled over the last couple of years with the acquisition of the property referred to as Pikeview Frontage. It's the rolling terrain at the base of the quarry, which the city has eyed for the future site of an elaborate bike park.

"With those new acquisitions, with the increased demand for recreation and access to public property, there's a significant need to update and create a new master plan for the entire property," said David Deitemeyer, city parks' senior landscape architect.

That's why the parks department has proposed $275,000 of "supplemental funds" from the Trails, Open Space and Parks budget to collect data, conduct public meetings, plot access and ultimately build or close trails. Pending approval by the parks board and City Council, the process could start early next year, Deitemeyer said.

It's all in an effort to balance recreation and conservation while minimizing liability — a balance of intense debate since the city gained Pikeview Frontage.

Cory Sutela, executive director of mountain biking group Medicine Wheel Trail Advocates, counted himself "super glad" by the prospect. "We want a planning process so we can quit fighting about what trails should and shouldn't be there," he said.

In the city's broader fight against rogue trails — those not professionally built and deemed environmentally damaging — the new parts of Blodgett have become a flashpoint. While the city has increased ranger presence and tried closing trails, there's evidence of enthusiasts wanting to maintain rides they long enjoyed in the property's private days. The downhill trail known as Fenceline has been particularly popular.

"There are a number of trails in there that are actively being built, and this is something that's different than some meandering, rogue trail," Scott Abbott, the city's regional parks, trails and open space manager, said in a previous interview. "These are actually being dug in with hand tools."

Sutela called the "pirate" behavior a direct result of the city's response. He did not condone the behavior. "At the same time, I think the city going in and basically trying to shut down Fenceline before there's a master plan, that's even more irresponsible," he said.

Fenceline represents a kind of trail that some enthusiasts see disappearing in a park system underfunded and, Sutela said, "driven toward designing trails that don't cost more money." Downhill, bike-specialized trails tend to be more costly. 

Speaking to Blodgett, "it hasn't been a cohesive effort just yet," Deitemeyer said. "Part of that is why we want to conduct this planning process and get the community vision."

Get more info on The Gazette.

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If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

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