The Canary Islands are a sought-after destination for holidays in the good weather. Unfortunately, with the growing popularity of the Canary Islands, there has also been an increase in the number of holiday home rental scams. At Cárdenas Real Estate we have compiled a collection of tips and advices on how to avoid falling into these traps.
Recognising rental scams
Rental scams can come in many forms, but they tend to share certain characteristics. Here are some key signs to watch out for:
- Unbelievably low prices: If a property is listed at a significantly lower price than similar properties in the area, it could be a scam.
- Pressure to act quickly: Scammers often create a sense of urgency by claiming that there are other interested parties.
- Lack of access to the property: If it is not possible to visit the property or the owner claims to be out of the country, be extra cautious.
- Requesting upfront payments: Be wary of anyone who asks for a deposit or a large rental payment before you have seen the property.
How to avoid rental scams
You need to take some steps and do some research beforehand so that you don’t end up in a rental scam.
Take the time to research both the landlord and the property. You can check public records, official websites, reviews from previous tenants, to be sure that the advertisement is real.
It is advisable to always look for rental ads on official websites. For example Idealista, Fotocasa or Cárdenas Real Estate.
Always ask to see the property in person before committing yourself to anything. During the visit, check that the property is well maintained and see if it is actually occupied. Speak directly with the landlord or letting agent, preferably in person. Ask questions about the property, the rental conditions and the environment to assess their knowledge and transparency.
When handling payments, avoid cash and use secure payment methods. Be cautious with bank transfers and send money only to verified accounts, never to foreign accounts unless you are absolutely sure.
Hiring a reputable real estate agency, such as Cárdenas Real Estate, can provide added security, as professional agencies have verified rental listings and a solid reputation.
What to do if you have been scammed
If you are a victim of a rental scam, it is important that you act quickly and decisively. Follow these steps to deal with the situation effectively:
- Cease communication. Immediately discontinue any contact with the fraudster to avoid further manipulation or demands.
- Gather documentation. Gather as much documentation and evidence as you can. This includes emails, text messages, payment receipts, property advertisements and any other communications with the scammer.
- Report it to the authorities. Contact your local authorities to file a report. It is important that you provide them with all the evidence you have gathered. In Spain, you can report online scams to the Guardia Civil through their website.
- Report it to the platform. Report the fraudulent advert to the website or platform where you found the rental advert. This helps prevent others from falling victim to the same scam.
- Seek legal advice. Consider consulting with a lawyer to learn about your rights and explore possible actions you can take to recover your losses.
- Alert your bank. If you have made any payments, contact your bank or payment provider immediately to explain the situation. They may be able to stop the transaction or help you recover your money.
By following these steps, you can take quick action to deal with the situation and minimise the impact of the scam. Being proactive and informed is key to handling these unfortunate circumstances.
Why choose Cárdenas Real Estate?
At Cárdenas Estate Agents, we are proud to be a reference in the south of Gran Canaria. With over 40 years of experience and an in-depth knowledge of the local market, we ensure that every property we advertise is thoroughly researched for your peace of mind.
Don’t let the fear of scams stop you from finding your dream home in Gran Canaria. By taking the right precautions and working with a reputable estate agent, you can enjoy a safe and hassle-free rental experience.
Ready to start your property search with confidence? Contact Cárdenas Real Estate today and let us guide you to your ideal home in Gran Canaria.
