How to Avoid Real Estate Scams
Why Real Estate Scams Are on the Rise: Whether you’re a hopeful renter, a new landlord, or an experienced investor, real estate scams can trip up anyone — and unfortunately, they’re on the rise across Canada. In growing communities like Hamilton and Niagara, where demand for rentals and investment properties is soaring, scammers are getting more creative… and convincing.
But here’s the good news: with a little knowledge and a few tools, you can protect yourself and your property. This guide breaks down the most common real estate scams in Canada and how to avoid them — specifically tailored to our Ontario communities.
Common Types of Real Estate Scams in Canada
🕵️♀️ Rental Listing Scams
These are some of the most common scams. Fraudsters copy real listings and repost them with fake contact info, or invent completely fake units using stolen photos. They’ll often ask for a deposit upfront — before you’ve even seen the place.
💸 Deposit Fraud
Scammers may insist you send money quickly to “hold” the unit — sometimes even before viewing. Legit landlords and property managers won’t pressure you like that.
🧑💼 Fake Landlords or Agents
Some fraudsters pretend to be the owner or an agent — but aren’t. They may create fake lease agreements, provide false credentials, or use stolen identities.
📜 Title Fraud
This serious scam involves someone fraudulently selling or mortgaging a property they don’t actually own — often by stealing someone’s identity. Title fraud can leave property owners financially devastated.
🏚️ Foreclosure or “Rent-to-Own” Scams
These often target vulnerable renters or hopeful buyers. Scammers may ask for large upfront payments and promise homeownership later — but it’s all smoke and mirrors.
🔗 Canadian Resources:
Red Flags to Watch For
🚩 The rent seems too good to be true (because it usually is).
🚩 You’re being asked to send money via e-transfer or wire before seeing the unit.
🚩 The “landlord” avoids phone or video calls and refuses to meet in person.
🚩 The listing or email is full of grammar mistakes and vague details.
🚩 You’re asked for sensitive information (e.g. SIN, banking info) too early in the process.
If something feels off, trust your gut — and double check everything.
How to Verify a Legitimate Listing or Landlord
✅ Search the address online — if the unit is listed in multiple places with different prices or contact details, something’s wrong.
✅ Request ID and proof of ownership — a real landlord won’t hesitate to provide documentation.
✅ Use reputable platforms like:
- Realtor.ca
- Rentals.ca
- Zolo.ca
Bonus tip: avoid sketchy or vague Facebook Marketplace or Kijiji listings unless you can verify the source.
✅ Check if the agent is registered with:
Tips for Tenants to Stay Safe
Don’t send money before seeing the unit in person or through a secure video tour.
Never share your SIN unless absolutely required — and only once a lease is in place.
Request a signed lease (Ontario standard leases are mandatory for most residential rentals).
Use trusted background check services if offered — legit property managers do this too!
Tips for Landlords & Investors
Screen tenants thoroughly. Run background checks, verify income and ID.
Use a property management company (like Welcome Home) to handle listings, showings, and applications safely.
Get title insurance to protect your property from title fraud.
Monitor your property’s title through your provincial land registry (in Ontario, that’s via OnLand).
Conduct regular inspections and keep detailed records.
What to Do If You’ve Been Targeted or Scammed
If you’ve been scammed — or almost were — take action immediately.
📍 Report to:
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
- Your local police service:
- Hamilton Police Service
- Niagara Regional Police Service
🏦 Contact your bank or credit card company right away if money was sent.
📱 Report the scam ad to Facebook, Kijiji, or wherever it was posted.
Final Thoughts: Stay Smart, Stay Safe
Real estate scams can be stressful, sneaky, and costly — but they don’t have to catch you off guard. Whether you’re a renter looking for a new home or a landlord managing a portfolio, the key is to slow down, verify everything, and ask questions.
And if you’re ever in doubt? Don’t go it alone.
We’ve got your back here at Welcome Home Management — right here in Hamilton and Niagara. We handle the details, so you can rest easy knowing everything is legit.