Desperate for Perth Rental, David Uncovers Online Rental Scams
David*, a savvy tech worker, recently faced the challenges of Perth’s tight rental market. Despite being cautious of online scams, his desperation for affordable housing led him to explore listings on platforms like Facebook Marketplace. The competitive nature of the market often left renters like him grappling with overcrowded inspections and unresponsive agents.
Online Rental Scams in Perth
Searching for apartments, David quickly discovered that many listings were fraudulent. He noticed similar phrases used by various scammers, excuses for property inspections, and identical email addresses linked to different listings. Many ads promised low-cost rentals, one enticing potential renters with a modern one-bedroom apartment near South Beach for just $350 per week. When communicating with these “landlords,” requests for security deposits soon followed, raising red flags for David.
The Tactics Used by Scammers
- Recent profiles with few friends
- Professional images stolen from legitimate listings
- Excuses for not allowing property inspections
- Pressure tactics for quick bond payments
In conversations, scammers often directed potential tenants to drive past the property, reinforcing emotional investment and urgency. The conditions fostered by Perth’s housing crisis amplified the risk of these fraudulent schemes. Consumer Protection’s acting commissioner, Owen Kelly, stated that nearly $200,000 was lost to such scams over the past three years, with significant amounts disappearing in 2023 and 2025.
Rental Market Statistics
As of December 2025, the vacancy rate in Perth stood at only 2.6%. Rental prices have reached historic highs, averaging around $700 per week for homes and $670 for units. These challenging conditions have made it easier for scammers to target desperate tenants.
Identifying Rental Scams
To help renters stay alert, the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia (REIWA) has outlined key signs of rental scams:
- Advertisements on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree
- Prices significantly lower than the market average
- Landlords unable to show the property in person
- Pressure to send money quickly to secure the rental
REIWA president Suzanne Brown emphasized the importance of trusting one’s instincts when searching for rentals. If anything seems off or too good to be true, renters should cease all communication with the landlord.
The Role of Technology
David echoed the sentiment that platforms like Meta (Facebook) should implement stricter measures to thwart scams. The social media giant has stated that they are rolling out new anti-scam products while working alongside governments and law enforcement to combat these issues. Nevertheless, the rise of sophisticated scams continues to challenge both consumers and service providers in the real estate market.
While David remains hopeful about finding a rental in Perth, the experience serves as a warning. Individuals seeking housing should remain vigilant and informed to protect themselves from online rental scams.
*David’s name has been changed to ensure privacy during his rental search.
