May 15, 2025
In today's digital world, finding your next apartment might start with a quick search, but not everything that shows up is legit.
Rental scams are rising in 2025, and scammers are getting more creative by the day. The last thing you want is to hand over money for a place that doesn't exist.
At Buckeye Northwest Realty, renters deserve transparency, safety, and real support—not shady listings and ghost landlords. We’ve compiled this guide to help you spot red flags before they cost you time, stress, or money.
The Most Common Rental Scams in 2025
1. The “Too Good to Be True” Deal
If the rent seems too low for the area or the photos look like they belong in a luxury magazine, proceed cautiously. Scammers count on baiting renters with unbelievable deals.
► Tip: Always check comparable listings in the neighborhood. If one stands out too much, it could be a fake.
2. No In-Person Showings
If someone says they “can’t show the property” because they’re out of town, deployed, or “handling it remotely,” that’s a huge red flag.
► Real Deal: At Buckeye Northwest Realty, we schedule in-person tours or arrange secure access for virtual walk-throughs. You should always see a place before signing anything.
3. They Want Cash or Gift Cards
Scammers often request unusual payment methods—like Venmo, CashApp, gift cards, or crypto—and pressure you to pay fast “before someone else does.”
► Never pay a deposit or application fee unless you’re dealing with a verified company like Buckeye Northwest Realty, with secure, trackable payment options.
4. They Don’t Ask for an Application
A real property manager will always require an application, references, and/or background checks. Scammers often skip this to “seal the deal quickly.”
► If there’s no screening process, it’s likely not legit.
How to Protect Yourself When Apartment Hunting
✔︎ Google the address and reverse image search photos
✔︎ Call the rental company directly to confirm the listing
✔︎ Ask for a lease preview and verify who owns the property
✔︎ Tour the property in person before paying anything
✔︎ Only apply through official company websites
How Buckeye Northwest Realty Keeps You Safe
We take scams seriously—and we make it easy to avoid them:
✔︎ Verified listings only on buckeyenw.com
✔︎ Secure tenant portal for applications, payments & communication
✔︎ Real people, real support—we’re local and always here to help
✔︎ Clear rental criteria so you know exactly what to expect
If you ever have a question about a listing that claims to be from us, call us. We’re happy to verify anything for you.
Looking for a Legit Apartment in Toledo?
Avoid the scams and rent with confidence. Whether you’re looking for a one-bedroom, a family-friendly duplex, or a pet-friendly pad, Buckeye Northwest Realty has you covered—with real listings, real tours, and real support.
Browse available rentals at: buckeyenw.com/rental-properties
☎︎ Or call us at (419) 385-5555 to speak with our team today!
