Facebook Marketplace has become one of the most popular places to search for rentals — and unfortunately, one of the easiest places to get scammed.

Rental scams on Facebook typically follow the same playbook: a listing appears with photos of a beautiful unit at a price that seems just a little too good to be true. The “landlord” is conveniently out of town, unavailable to show the unit in person, and asks you to e-transfer a deposit to hold the place before someone else takes it. Once the money is sent, they disappear.

Red flags to watch for:

• The rent is noticeably below market value for the area
• The landlord refuses or is unable to do an in-person or video showing
• They ask for a deposit, first/last, or personal information before you’ve signed anything
• The listing photos look professional but the account is brand new with no history
• Pressure to decide quickly — “I have three other applicants”

What you should do instead:

Always verify that the person listing the property actually has the right to rent it. Ask to see ID alongside the lease or title. Never send money via e-transfer or crypto before a signed lease is in hand. And if a deal feels off, trust your gut — it usually is.

Where to find legitimate listings

Stick to verified platforms where listings are tied to licensed professionals. Realtor.ca is Canada’s most trusted real estate database, where every listing is posted by a registered agent — meaning there’s a real, accountable person behind every property. It’s one of the safest starting points for your rental search.

You can also browse our own real estate listing search app directly connected to the MLS! visit.tanteam.com/listings — a curated search tool where you can explore available rentals that our team stands behind directly. No fake accounts, no e-transfer traps, just real homes.

The smarter way to find a rental

Getting pre-qualified before you start your search puts you in a stronger position and protects you. At helpingme.rent, we help tenants get pre-qualified so they’re ready to move on legitimate listings fast — without falling victim to the scams flooding social media.

Your next home should be exciting, not stressful. Let’s make sure it is.