Just Two Weeks Into the New Year, Rental Scams Are Already Plaguing the Nation

rently rental fraud survey

As Americans turn the page to a new year, the dream of finding a new home is quickly becoming a nightmare for many. In just the first ten days of 2025, rental scams are surfacing nationwide, targeting desperate renters in an already strained housing market. From small towns to bustling metropolitan areas, the stories reveal a troubling trend of fraudsters exploiting the chaos of high demand and low supply.

A Growing Threat in a Tight Market

In Wyoming, law enforcement is investigating a surge in fraudulent listings targeting the state’s limited housing market. Fake rental advertisements lured prospective tenants into paying deposits for homes they’d never be able to access, leaving many stranded and financially devastated. Similarly, Santa Clara County, California, has seen a spike in fake rental postings. Local officials warn renters to verify listings carefully, as scammers increasingly use online platforms to con victims.

Meanwhile, in North Las Vegas, an elementary school became an unlikely hero after families were duped into renting properties that were never available. Victims, including single mothers and immigrants, were left without housing just as children were preparing to return to school. The school stepped in, helping victims find temporary shelter and resources, but the damage—both financial and emotional—was significant.

In Florida, a couple was caught squatting in a family’s home, attempting to rent it out to unsuspecting tenants. The case, which underscores the brazenness of some fraudsters, was only uncovered after vigilant would-be renters contacted the sheriff’s department to verify the legitimacy of the deal.

Fraudsters Exploit Desperation and Technology

The surge in scams is supported by findings in a recent study by Rently, which analyzed how fraudsters exploit desperation in a tight housing market. Conducted by Pollfish, the 2024 Rently Survey: Rental Scams and Fraud Report surveyed 500 U.S. renters, uncovering the emotional, financial, and systemic toll of fraud. Among its findings, the survey revealed 93% of respondents perceive scams as common and 90% express fear of falling victim themselves.

The study also sheds light on scammers’ tactics, with 88% of fraudulent listings originating on Facebook and often featuring below-market prices, immediate availability, and desirable locations to lure renters. In addition to financial loss, victims reported feelings of betrayal and anxiety, leading to reduced trust in online rental platforms.

Renters overwhelmingly called for landlords and property management companies to adopt secure technologies, such as identity verification and real-time property viewing, to combat fraud and rebuild trust. “Rental fraud isn’t just a financial crime; it’s a direct attack on trust and stability,” said Rently CEO Merrick Lackner, urging the industry to prioritize safeguards and transparency to protect renters.

A Perfect Storm for Rental Scams

Experts point to a combination of factors fueling this crisis. The lingering effects of inflation, which have kept rental prices high, combined with a nationwide housing shortage, create fertile ground for scammers. The desperation of renters in cities like San Jose and Las Vegas, where housing is notoriously expensive, makes them prime targets for these schemes.

The solution, housing advocates argue, lies in greater consumer education and stricter regulation of online rental platforms.

Protecting Yourself from Rental Fraud

Authorities recommend that renters remain vigilant, avoiding any deal that seems too good to be true. They suggest verifying property ownership through public records and insisting on in-person showings before making payments. As this latest wave of scams demonstrates, a little caution can go a long way in protecting your finances—and your peace of mind.

With the year only just beginning, the widespread nature of these scams suggests that renters nationwide must brace themselves for what could be a long battle against fraudsters. As Rently’s data shows, rental fraud is no longer an occasional inconvenience—it’s a systemic problem that demands attention and action.