Q: What is a “fake listing” in NYC rentals—and how do I avoid getting scammed?
Posted by u/LeaseAwareNYC • 3 hours ago
I’ve seen gorgeous apartments online at prices way below market—but I’m starting to worry some of them aren’t real.
How do I know if a listing is legit, and what warning signs should I be watching for? Would love any personal tips or red flags.
Top Answer by Estay
Estay Housing Consultant | Flagged 200+ fake listings before clients ever wasted a tour
In NYC’s competitive market, fake or misleading listings are surprisingly common—especially on platforms with loose posting standards. Here’s how to spot them before you get burned:
1 – Price Too Good to Be True
If a 2BR in SoHo is listed for $1,500, something’s off. Cross-check rent against similar listings in the same ZIP code. Most scammers bait with underpriced “luxury” apartments in prime locations to attract fast clicks.
2 – Blurry or Stolen Photos
Real apartments have real photo sets—clear, timestamped, and consistent. Scam listings often use staged interiors pulled from Airbnb or real estate blogs. Reverse image search can reveal reuse across cities or countries.
3 – No Physical Viewing Allowed
A huge red flag. If someone asks you to send money “before showing” or claims they’re “out of town,” walk away. Legitimate brokers or owners will arrange an in-person or live virtual tour.
4 – Requests for Upfront Payment via Zelle/Cash App
Reputable NYC landlords don’t collect application fees or deposits through peer-to-peer apps. You should never transfer funds before confirming lease terms and identity. Wire fraud is nearly impossible to reverse.
5 – Vague Details or Pressure Tactics
Scammers keep things generic—no unit number, missing square footage, or suspiciously evasive answers. If someone says “many applicants already,” but won’t let you tour first, it’s probably a bluff.
✨ Quick Summary
- Too cheap? Too vague? It’s likely fake.
- Never send money before a verified lease or walkthrough.
- Cross-check all listings with Google Maps & building sites.
- Prefer platforms like Estay.ai that vet listings and brokers before posting.
Fake listings prey on urgency. Stay alert, verify all contact details, and don’t rush because someone says “it’s going fast.” The right apartment is out there—you just need to avoid the traps.
Bonus Tip: Use reverse image search (e.g. Google Lens) to detect recycled photos used in fake ads across multiple sites.
Pro Tip: Ask for a copy of the building’s Certificate of Occupancy or past lease sample—real landlords won't hesitate.
Updated weekly • Based on 2025 NYC rental safety standards and user reports