1) Prepare before you search
- Decide budget, move-in date, neighborhoods, and “must-haves” (parking, pets, utilities included, furnished, etc.).
- Use a folder (or save in Notes) with message templates and screenshot / copy of each listing you like.
2) Search smart on Facebook Marketplace
- Use the Housing category and filters (location radius, price, home type). Many property managers and landlords post there as well
- Try multiple keyword combinations (city + “for rent”, “available now”, “furnished”, “utilities included”, etc.). Save searches and enable alerts for new listings.
3) Quick Vet
- Check listing date (newer is better), price (too low = scam), description (vague = red flag), and photos (few or none = red flag).
- Google the address to see if it’s real, check Street View, and look for reviews of the property or landlord.
- Download or copy a listing photo and run a reverse image search (Google Images or TinEye) to see if the photo appears elsewhere (often a sign the images are stolen).
- Read the description. Pay attention to hidden fees (e.g. utilities, parking passes, etc)
- Ask questions via Messenger: Is it still available? When can I see it? How many people are applying? What’s the application process?
often you will be buying a contract from someone who has already purchased a prior contract. So you need ot talk extensively with the person on chat.
Red flags (stop immediately if you see these)
- Price is way below market rate
- Landlord/manager can’t show you the unit in person or via video
- Landlord/manager wants you to pay via wire transfer, gift card, or cash
- Listing has no photos or only stock photos
- Landlord/manager is out of the country or can’t meet you in person
- Poster’s Facebook profile is brand new, minimal activity, or uses stolen photos.
- requests deposit before signing contract
Sample messages to send
Hi — is this unit at [ADDRESS OR LISTING TITLE] still available? I’m interested. Could you confirm the exact address and who manages the property? Thanks — [Your name + phone].
<>日本語訳<>
こんにちは。
こちらの物件「[住所またはリスティング名]」は、まだ空いていますでしょうか？
正確な住所と管理者の方について教えていただけますか？
よろしくお願いいたします。
あなたの名前・電話番号]