Stay safe when buying or renting

Every listing on YouLista is checked automatically for common scam signs, and suspicious ones are held for review. These tips work in any country.

See it before you pay

Never pay a deposit, bond, holding fee or rent before you’ve inspected the home in person (or via a live video call you control) and signed a proper agreement.

Pay traceably

Don’t pay by gift card, cryptocurrency, money transfer services or to a personal account overseas. Legitimate owners and agents accept traceable payments.

Be wary of absent owners

“I’m abroad / on a mission, I’ll post you the keys” is the most common rental scam in the world.

Too good to be true usually is

A price far below similar homes nearby is a warning sign. We flag listings priced well under the local market.

Keep the conversation here

Scammers push you to WhatsApp, Telegram or private email quickly. Contact through the enquiry form on the listing so there’s a record.

Check who you’re dealing with

Ask for ID and proof of ownership or the agent’s licence where your country requires one. Every YouLista account has a verified mobile number.

Report a listing

Open the listing and use Report this listing at the bottom of the contact panel. Listings reported by several people are hidden until our team reviews them.

If you’ve already sent money, contact your bank and local police straight away.

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