Relocating to Houston: Avoiding Rental Scams

Relocating to Houston can be an exciting new chapter. However, 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 exist, fraudulent ones are also prevalent. They are often found on "reputable" platforms like Apartments.com, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace. These scams tend to follow predictable patterns, preying on the urgency, stress, and limited local knowledge of newcomers trying to secure housing.

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. 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 interest quickly and push for fast 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

Moving to Houston can be a major life change, whether for work, school, or a fresh start. Here are some steps to minimize 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 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 seems off, don’t proceed with the transaction.

Request a Live Tour (Video or In-Person)

A legitimate landlord should offer a FaceTime or Zoom tour, even for out-of-state renters. If they cannot provide access, it’s best to walk away.

Read the Lease Carefully

Ensure the lease names the correct owner or an authorized property manager. It should also reflect Houston and Texas-specific leasing laws.

Avoid Pressure and Urgency Tactics

Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency. If someone pressures you for a deposit without a lease or verification, take a step back and reassess.

Rental Scam Warning Signs Checklist

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

• 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 information

• Payment requested via instant-transfer apps

• Duplicate listings found with inconsistent details

  
  

Final Thoughts

As Houston continues to grow, opportunities also rise. Unfortunately, so do scams. Out-of-state renters can be particularly 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. This ensures your move is the beginning of something great—not the result of a costly mistake.

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