The number of real estate scams that are registered in Spain are low, however, the number is never zero. We advise you to take all precautions and be very vigilant to avoid rental scams , especially if you are looking for a vacation home with real estate solutions. To prepare you for the analysis of rental offers, we offer you this publication with the most important keys to identify any theft attempt.
Also, remember that you have our advice to guarantee you access to real and safe rental flat offers , with the possibility of reviewing the documentation and negotiating for you.
1. Beware of offers with very low prices
It is true that in recent years rental prices have decreased and that with the new Housing Law there is a regulation for rent in stressed areas. However, extremely low prices are a clear indication of an attempt to scam you. The dwelling in question may not exist or the description may not correspond to its current state.
When you find an ad, either for long-term or vacation rental, that is well below the average for the area, we advise you to stay away. Don't know how to specify the rent range of a city or neighborhood? Consult with our advisers or make an analysis comparing similar offers in the same area.
Check property ownership
Use the Land Registry to verify that the landlord is indeed the owner of the flat. You may be doing the management through a real estate agency like ours and in that case we will take care of verifying the identity of the owner and showing it to you through a simple note.
Also, carefully evaluate the behavior of the landlord, if it is a person who gives in to all your requests, then take it as a warning sign.
Always sign a contract
The contracts are not only for the purchase of the property, you must have them reviewed by an agent or lawyer and sign them as protection. This legal and binding document establishes the conditions in which the rent has been agreed, the amount to be paid and the frequency.
Also, the conditions in which the property is received and must be delivered, who must assume certain expenses for damages or repairs, among others. Make sure that the contract respects the regulations in force for leases.
Request proof of deposit payment
It is a reservation that can be around 20 or 30% of the rental price and that is paid as a reservation for the apartment, more common when it is a vacation rental. Before paying that money, verify the identity of the holder, as we have explained, and ask for proof of payment.
Always visit the property
Although it is very attractive to search for rentals through online platforms, never pay without first making a visit to verify that the address is exactly the one offered and that the property is as shown in photographs. Do a complete review of all spaces, appliances, fixtures, furniture and other things. If you notice a defect that has not been previously indicated, ask for it to be included in the contract.
In the best case, make your visit with one of our agents, we can help you avoid any scam when renting and review the properties in great detail.