Safety Tips for Renters

Finding housing online can be convenient, but it also requires caution.
Hyde Park Marketplace is a listing platform only. We do not verify listings, users, or properties.
Please review the tips below carefully before contacting a landlord or sending any payments.

1. Never send money before verifying the listing

Do not send any deposit, application fee, or rent before you have verified the property and the person you are dealing with.
Be cautious of requests for payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or other unusual methods.
Scammers often pressure renters to “act quickly.” Take your time and verify everything.

2. Verify the property information

Before making any payments, you should verify that:

the property address exists and matches the listing;
the property PIN (Property Index Number) matches the address;
the name on the lease matches the property owner or authorized landlord;
the name on the rent-receiving bank account matches the name on the lease.

If these do not match, do not send any money.

3. Visit the property in person whenever possible

Always try to view the room or apartment in person before signing a lease.
If you cannot visit in person, ask for a live video tour showing the actual unit, not pre-recorded or stock photos.
Be cautious if the landlord refuses to show the unit or avoids live communication.

4. Review the lease or sublease carefully

Read the entire lease or sublease agreement before signing.
Confirm rent amount, lease term, start and end dates, utilities, and any fees.
If you are subleasing, make sure the current tenant has the legal right to sublease under their lease and building rules.

5. Communicate directly and keep records

Use clear, written communication with the landlord or roommate.
Keep copies of messages, listings, leases, and payment records.
Avoid sharing sensitive personal information unless necessary and appropriate.

6. Watch for common warning signs

Be cautious if you notice any of the following:

the rent is significantly below market price without a clear explanation;
the landlord refuses to meet, show the unit, or answer basic questions;
the listing contains inconsistent or vague information;
you are asked to send money urgently to “hold” the unit.

7. Our role and your responsibility

Hyde Park Marketplace:

is an online listing platform only;
does not act as a landlord, broker, or property manager;
does not verify users, listings, or payment details.

You are responsible for:

verifying the identity of the other party;
confirming all property and lease details;
making safe and informed decisions before sending any payments.

If you believe a listing may be fraudulent or misleading, please report it to us at
support@hydeparkmarketplace.com so we can review it.