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Moving to Houston? Here's How to Avoid Rental Scams When Relocating From Out of State

Updated: May 13

Relocating to Houston can be an exciting new chapter—but for many renters, especially those moving from out of state, the experience can quickly turn into a nightmare due to sophisticated rental scams.


While legitimate rental listings are out there, so are fraudulent ones—often found on "reputable" platforms like Apartments.com, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace. These scams tend to follow predictable patterns and prey on the urgency, stress, and limited local knowledge of newcomers trying to secure housing before they arrive.



Common Rental Scam Tactics:

What to Watch For


Rental scams can be convincing, but they often share several warning signs. Here are the most common red flags seen in fraudulent listings:


1. Not Listed on MLS or HAR.com


Legitimate rentals in Houston are typically listed on the MLS, accessible through HAR.com—the Houston Association of Realtors. If a property isn’t on HAR or verified by a licensed agent, that’s a red flag.



2. Owner Claims to Be Out of State or Abroad


This excuse is used to avoid showing the property or meeting in person. Scammers will often promise to mail the keys or claim a “contractor” will handle the handoff—yet access never materializes.



3. Excuses for Delayed Access or Missing Keys


Claims that a contractor can’t be reached or that access is “pending” after a deposit is sent are common tactics. Any delay in access should halt the transaction immediately.



4. Price Is Significantly Below Market Rate


If a property seems “too good to be true,” it likely is. Scammers price properties attractively to generate fast interest and push for quick deposits.



5. No Application Process or Background Check


Reputable landlords and property managers always conduct some form of tenant screening. If someone skips this and just asks for money, it’s a major red flag.



6. Mismatch in Contact Info and Property Ownership


Always verify the property owner’s name through the Harris County Appraisal District (HCAD). If the contact name or phone number doesn’t align with public ownership records, don’t proceed.



7. Refusal to Do In-Person or Virtual Tours


A legitimate landlord should be able to offer a virtual or in-person tour, especially for out-of-state tenants. If they send only photos or stall on scheduling a walkthrough, take caution.



8. Generic Lease Agreements


Scammers often use downloaded or copied lease templates with vague terms and no Houston- or Texas-specific clauses. Always read the lease thoroughly and verify the names listed.



9. Payment Requested Through Zelle, Venmo, or Cash App


Scammers rely on fast, untraceable payment methods. Avoid any transaction not backed by a proper lease and identity verification.



10. Property Listed on Multiple Sites With Different Info


If the same property appears with different names, prices, or contact numbers across platforms, the listing may have been duplicated or scraped from a legitimate post.



Steps to Protect Yourself When Renting in Houston


Whether you're relocating for work, school, or a fresh start, take these steps to reduce your risk:


Start Your Search on HAR.com

HAR is the most accurate and secure platform for Houston-area rentals. Listings come directly from the MLS and are verified by licensed real estate professionals.


Consider Working With a Local Realtor

In Texas, licensed Realtors can help you find and lease properties—often at no cost to you as the tenant. Even if there’s a fee involved, the value of avoiding a scam or lease dispute is well worth it.


Confirm Ownership via Public Records

Use HCAD.org to verify property ownership. If the person you’re dealing with doesn’t match the legal owner—or can’t prove they’re authorized to lease the home—walk away.


Use Tools Like Forewarn or Spokeo

Reverse-lookup tools can confirm whether a name, number, and address align. If anything is off, don’t proceed.


Request a Live Tour (Video or In-Person)

Even from out of state, a legitimate landlord should offer a FaceTime or Zoom tour. No access, no deal.


Read the Lease Carefully

Make sure the lease names the correct owner or an authorized property manager and reflects Houston/Texas-specific leasing laws.


Avoid Pressure and Urgency Tactics

Scammers will push for fast action. If someone demands a deposit without a lease or verification, take a step back.



Rental Scam Warning Signs Checklist


Before you send money or sign a lease, review this checklist:


  • Property is not listed on HAR.com or MLS

  • Owner claims to be out of state

  • Delays in providing access or keys

  • No background check or application process

  • Price is well below market value

  • Contact info doesn’t match public records

  • No live or virtual tour offered

  • Lease is vague, outdated, or missing key info

  • Payment requested via instant-transfer apps

  • Duplicate listings found with inconsistent details



Final Thoughts


As Houston continues to grow, so do opportunities—and unfortunately, so do scams. Out-of-state renters are especially vulnerable due to distance, limited local knowledge, and time pressure. By using trusted platforms, verifying ownership, and working with licensed professionals, you can protect yourself and ensure your move is the beginning of something great—not the result of a costly mistake.


If you're unsure about a rental or want help navigating the process, consider consulting with a local Realtor who knows the market and can verify listings for you.



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