For military families, frequent moves and short-term orders require flexibility, especially when looking for a place to call your next home. The right resources, though, can streamline the process, however many times you've done it.
Whether you're moving to a new base or looking for a place near your current duty station, exercise caution when browsing military rentals and homes for rent. Keep an eye out for these rental red flags when you look for a place to live.
1. Unrealistic Rental Prices
One of the most common red flags in any rental market is an unusually low or high asking price. If the listing price is significantly lower than similar properties in the area, it's worth investigating. While it may seem like a great deal, this could be a sign of hidden issues such as property damage or a high crime rate in the area.
On the flip side, military homes for rent that are priced much higher than comparable rentals should also raise suspicion. Excessive rent is a tactic to take advantage of the military’s Basic Housing Allowance. Since BAH calculators are readily accessible online, it can be easy for unscrupulous landlords to target the military community. Always do your research. Learn the typical rental prices in the area so you don't overpay.
2. No Photos or Only Stock Photos in the Listing
While some rental listings may omit pictures due to privacy concerns, those with only stock images, exterior images, or no pictures should make you wary. It can be an indication that the landlord is hiding issues, such as poor maintenance, outdated appliances, a dated interior when the listing says "recently renovated," or other problems that would be deal-breakers.
3. No Detailed Lease Terms
Be cautious of listings that don’t provide clear lease terms or have unusually rigid conditions. A legitimate rental listing will clearly outline the lease duration, whether the property allows for early termination, and what penalties (if any) are associated with breaking the lease.
A landlord's unwillingness to discuss or document these terms should raise concerns. A trustworthy property manager will understand the unique nature of military life and be willing to work with tenants who may face unexpected changes.
4. Poor Communication
A landlord or property manager who is unresponsive or difficult to contact is a major warning sign. A constantly busy, fax-only, or unanswered number is a bad sign, since reliable communication is crucial when you need help with maintenance issues or have questions about the lease terms.
Look out for delays or vague responses to your questions about the property and be cautious if you receive inconsistent information. A responsive and responsible landlord should be eager to answer your questions and make you feel comfortable with the rental process.
Photo by criene from Getty Images via Canva.com
5. Too Many Fees or Upfront Costs
While it's common for military rentals to require a security deposit and perhaps a pet deposit, be wary of listings that charge numerous upfront fees. Some landlords may hide excessive fees in the fine print, such as cleaning fees or mandatory maintenance fees. While some fees are legitimate, small costs can add up quickly and make the rental less affordable than it seems. Familiarize yourself with state laws, as many states limit how much a landlord can legally require upfront.
Also, be mindful of "move-in specials" that sound too good to be true. Sometimes, they waive the security deposit, but these offers often include additional costs buried in the lease or a higher-than-normal rent increase once the promotional period ends. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of costs before signing any lease agreement.
6. Vague Descriptions
Rental home listings should have a clear, honest description that gives you a good sense of what you’re getting into. A detailed listing should cover basic information like the amenities, which utilities are included, the location, and any restrictions (such as pets or smoking).
If a listing glosses over these critical details or is written in a way that seems overly generic, it could indicate that the landlord is hiding something.
7. Landlord or Property Manager Unwilling to Meet in Person
An in-person visit allows you to inspect the unit, see the neighborhood, and determine whether it meets your needs. If the landlord or property manager hesitates to meet you, insists on only communicating via email or phone, or requires payment to view the home, it could be a scam or a sign that the property is not as advertised.
A legitimate landlord should be willing to give you a tour of the rental property and answer any questions you have during the visit. If they’re pressuring you to sign a lease without seeing the property or doing a virtual walk-through together first, it might be best to run the other way.
Using a third party, such as Rent Risk or SmartMove helps protect your personal information and reduces risk when dealing with strangers.
8. No Lease Agreement or Written Documentation
A lease agreement is your protection, and it should clearly outline the responsibilities of both parties, including rent payments, maintenance expectations, and termination policies.
Never hand over money without a signed lease agreement and ensure that all terms are clearly defined. If the landlord doesn't provide a written lease, or if the lease seems overly vague or confusing, it’s time to walk away.
While finding a place to live at a new duty station can be stressful, staying vigilant and knowing what red flags to look for in rental listings can protect you from potential scams and bad rental experiences. Searching on sites like MilitaryByOwner, where landlords must pay to advertise, will also help reduce your risk of coming across a bad rental. When in doubt, trust your gut. If something seems suspicious or too good to be true, don't move forward.
Keep these tips in mind as you search for military homes for rent and don't be afraid to ask questions or take your time to find the right fit.
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