When you are looking for an apartment online the choices may seem overwhelming, the number of great deals and offers will seem like a heaven. But we rush to warn you and advise to be very careful with online purchases. Great numbers may appear to be a scam while nice pictures turn out into a nightmare. Below we prepared several things you should avoid when looking for an apartment to rent or buy online.
1. Know whom you are Dealing with
It is vital to understand whom you are renting an apartment from. When you find apartments that you like make sure to understand whether you will be renting directly from owners, online marketplaces, travel agencies, or even real estate brokers. It is a vital step to make because the type of actor will influence the guarantees and obligations you will have. And regardless of the type of the renter, make sure to check the reputation of his or hers.
2. Do not believe in ‘too good to be true’ Offers
Remember that there is no such thing as a free lunch. You may find an offer that seems to be incredible, but in the end will turn into a nightmare. Make sure that every offer and renting ad you find you will check deeply to avoid scams. One of the easiest ways to lose your money is to agree to pay upfront or agree to the lowest price in the market.
3. Do not send money with unsecured means
There are thousands of ways to get your money including unsecured and unclear paying systems. Professionals advise to use paying systems that have traceability otherwise break the deal. In terms of secured and reliable paying methods you can trust credit cards procedures or PayPal system because the money flow with these means can be easily traced if needed.
4. Always ask for details, such as pictures, videos, floor plans and any other additional information you need
If you found an apartment you like online and cannot visit it for a check, always ask a renter to send you detailed description of an apartment and also provide you with pictures and video of a place. You should not rely on the trustfulness of a person you do not know, always make sure to have clear evidences of a good deal.
And never be shy to ask any questions that you are interested in. A good and reliable owner/renter will be happy to answer you and rent it to you.
5. Always check renter’s background
Regardless of whom (which type of renter) you will be cooperating with, you have to always make sure it is a legitimate and trustworthy person. You will always do your renter’s background check if plan to rent storage Toronto so do the same with an apartment. Pay attention to the ratings on the website you look at, check social media for any reviews and recommendations of a place or this person. And always check complaints register in your area.