Moving to Central Florida? Learn how to avoid rental scams, verify property owners, spot fake apartment listings, and protect yourself before signing a lease. Download the Orlando Moving Guide for more relocation tips.
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Don't Get Scammed When Relocating to Central Florida: 10 Ways to Protect Yourself Before Renting an Apartment or House


Relocating to Central Florida is exciting. Whether you're moving for a new job, retirement, school, or simply a fresh start, finding the right place to live is one of the biggest decisions you'll make.

Unfortunately, it's also when scammers are most active.


Every year, thousands of people lose money to fake rental listings, fraudulent landlords, and criminals posing as property managers. These scams are especially common when you're moving from another state because it's harder to visit the property in person.


As someone who has helped families relocate to the Orlando area for years, I've seen how convincing these scams can look. The photos appear legitimate. The price seems reasonable. The person responds quickly. Then they ask you to send money before you've even seen the property.


If you're relocating to Orlando, Kissimmee, Winter Garden, Lake Nona, Clermont, or anywhere in Central Florida, here are ten ways to protect yourself before signing a lease.


1. Never Send Money Through Cash App, Venmo, Zelle, or Wire Transfer Before Verifying the Property


This is the biggest red flag.

Scammers often ask you to send:



These payment methods are difficult or impossible to reverse if you discover you've been scammed. The FTC advises renters to be especially cautious of anyone requesting payment through these methods before you've verified the rental.


If someone pressures you to pay immediately to "hold the apartment," slow down and verify everything first.


2. Never Rent an Apartment or House You Haven't Seen


Pictures can be stolen from legitimate real estate websites in just a few seconds.

If you cannot visit the property yourself, ask:


Many legitimate apartment communities also offer live virtual tours.

If the person refuses any type of tour, walk away. The FTC specifically warns consumers not to pay for a property they have never seen.


3. Verify Who Actually Owns the Property


If you're renting a house, don't rely solely on what the listing says. Search the local county property records. For homes located in Orange County, use the Orange County Property Appraiser website to verify:


If the person claiming to own the house doesn't match the public records, ask more questions before moving forward. If they refuse to explain the difference, don't send any money.


4. Contact the Property Management Company Directly


Apartment communities almost always have an on-site leasing office or a corporate management company.


Instead of calling the phone number in a Facebook Marketplace post or online ad:



Scammers often copy legitimate apartment advertisements and replace the contact information with their own. One phone call can save you thousands of dollars.


5. Make Sure You Receive a Real Lease Agreement


A legitimate landlord or apartment community should provide a professional lease before requesting major payments. Read every page carefully.


The lease should clearly explain:


If the lease looks incomplete, contains obvious errors, or feels rushed, don't ignore those warning signs.


6. Have an Attorney Review the Lease for Expensive Rentals


If you're relocating from another state and signing a lease for a luxury apartment, rental home, or long-term lease, spending a little money on a real estate attorney can provide peace of mind.


An attorney can:


Think of it as insurance against costly mistakes.


7. Watch Out for Prices That Look Too Good


Everyone wants a great deal. But scammers know that. If a luxury apartment renting for $2,400 per month is suddenly advertised for $1,300 with no explanation, stop and investigate. Compare the rent with similar apartments near by. If it seems dramatically lower than everything else in the neighborhood, there's usually a reason.


8. Don't Let Anyone Pressure You Into Making a Decision


One of the oldest scam tactics is creating urgency.


You might hear:


Legitimate apartment communities may have limited availability, but they also understand that moving is a major decision. Anyone who refuses to answer your questions or pressures you into paying immediately should raise concern.


9. Research Reviews Before Applying


Before paying an application fee, spend a few minutes researching.


Look at:



Read both positive and negative reviews to identify recurring issues.

If you're renting from an individual homeowner, search their name online and verify they have a legitimate connection to the property.


10. Trust Your Instincts


If something feels off, don't ignore it.

Maybe the emails seem rushed.

Maybe the grammar is inconsistent.

Maybe the person refuses a video call.

Maybe they avoid answering basic questions.


Scammers often rely on excitement and urgency to prevent renters from slowing down and verifying the details.


Take your time.

Ask questions.

Verify everything.

The right apartment will still be there after you've done your homework.


Relocate With Confidence


Moving to Central Florida should be exciting?not stressful. A little research before signing a lease can save you thousands of dollars and countless headaches. That's one of the reasons I created the Orlando Moving Guide.


Inside you'll find:



Whether you're moving from across Florida or across the country, the guide is designed to help you relocate smarter, avoid common mistakes, and feel confident before you sign your next lease.


Download the Orlando Moving Guide today and start your move with the information every new Central Florida resident should have.