Seattle rental scams cost victims thousands of dollars every year—especially those relocating from out of state who can't visit in person. Scammers post fake listings, impersonate landlords, and collect deposits for apartments they don't own. Here's how to protect yourself.
Rental Scams Are Common in Seattle
Seattle's competitive market and high number of out-of-state relocations (tech workers) make it a target for scammers. Common victims include people moving from California who can't visit before signing.
The most common scam: fake Craigslist listings using photos stolen from legitimate rentals, offered at below-market prices.
🚩 Major Red Flags
Price is Too Good to Be True
A 1BR in Capitol Hill for $1,000? A new building for $1,200? If it's 30-40% below market rate, it's almost certainly a scam.
Can't See the Apartment
"I'm traveling" or "Just send a deposit and I'll mail you the keys" = 100% scam. Always see an apartment in person (or via live video from inside) before paying.
Requests Wire Transfer or Gift Cards
Legitimate landlords accept checks or ACH transfers. Wire transfers, Venmo to strangers, Zelle, or gift cards are untraceable and a massive red flag.
Pressure to Pay Immediately
"Someone else is about to take it" or "Send deposit now to hold it" before you've seen it. High pressure = scam.
No Lease or Application Process
Legitimate rentals have application processes and written leases. "Just pay and move in" is a scam.
Email Only / Won't Meet in Person
Scammers hide behind email. A real landlord or property manager will meet you at the property.
How to Verify a Listing
Verification Checklist
- 1Check King County property records
Search the address at the King County Assessor to see who owns the property.
- 2Reverse image search the photos
Drag photos into Google Images. If they appear on other sites or different listings, the photos may be stolen.
- 3Search the address on StreetSmart
See if the building is registered and get more information about the property.
- 4Meet at the building
Always meet at the actual apartment. If they want to meet elsewhere first, be suspicious.
- 5Verify they can access the unit
A legitimate landlord or agent will have keys and be able to show you inside. If they can't enter, walk away.
Verify Any Building for Free
Search any Seattle address to see building information. If a listing seems suspicious, check it here first.
Search a BuildingCommon Seattle Rental Scams
1. The Phantom Listing
Scammer posts photos stolen from a real listing (often from Zillow or Apartments.com) at a much lower price. They collect deposits from multiple victims for an apartment they don't control.
2. The "Overseas Owner"
Scammer claims to be traveling, working overseas, or a missionary. They can't meet in person but will "mail you the keys" once you send money. Classic scam targeting out-of-state renters.
3. The Fake Landlord
Someone poses as the landlord of a vacant unit (often watching for move-outs) and collects deposits. When you try to move in, the real owner has no idea who you are.
4. The Hijacked Listing
Scammers copy a legitimate listing but change the contact info. You think you're dealing with a real property manager but you're actually talking to a scammer.
Safe Payment Practices
- Never pay before seeing the apartment in person (or live video from inside)
- Never wire money or use gift cards
- Pay by check — made out to the landlord or management company name
- Get receipts for everything
- Read the lease before paying — never pay "to hold" without a signed lease
- Trust your gut — if something feels wrong, it probably is
What to Do If You've Been Scammed
If You've Already Paid a Scammer:
- 1. Report to Seattle Police — File a police report
- 2. Report to the FTC — reportfraud.ftc.gov
- 3. Report to the FBI's IC3 — ic3.gov for internet crimes
- 4. Contact your bank — They may be able to reverse charges
- 5. Report the listing — Flag it on the platform where you found it
- 6. Report to WA Attorney General — File a complaint
Where to Find Legitimate Listings
- Apartments.com / Zillow — Major platforms with some verification
- Direct from management companies — Large landlords list on their own sites
- Building websites — Many Seattle buildings have their own leasing sites
- Referrals — Ask friends or coworkers for recommendations
Be extra cautious with: Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and any listing that seems too good to be true.