How to Avoid Business Apartment Rentals Scams
You’ve probably heard your fair share of business rental scam horror stories. Fake images that depict beautiful spaces when in reality the place is a roach-infested dump. Or even worse – the stunning images advertising apartments that don’t actually exist.
Even on reputable sites like Airbnb and Booking.com, criminals find ways to deceive people.
The best way to avoid being the victim of this online fraud is to book your business apartment rental through a reputable company who you can trust. At TLV2GO, we have over 10 years of experience with corporate clients. When you book your business apartment rentals with us, you know that what you see will be what you get. You also know that you’ll have access to seamless check-ins, personal requests, luxurious furnishings, fresh designs and fantastic amenities.
With so many clients who have gone wrong in their search for a top business apartment rental in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Eilat, we decided to create a blog with some simple ways to help you stay away from the tricksters.
Here are our top 5 tips to help you avoid business apartment rentals scams.
1.Never Agree to Pay Cash
Any trustworthy company or host will be willing to take a credit card or bank transfer for payment and not insist on cash. Beware of any host demanding that you pay only in cash. This is often a way of making sure the money is not traceable, and it leaves you with zero recourse if something is amiss.
2.Ask to View the Property
Even if you don’t live in the city where you’re seeking a business apartment for rent, you should be able to ask any legitimate host for a visit to the grounds to see the actual property. If they decline an in-person visit, consider it a red flag. If they accept without hesitation, the chances are good that it’s not a scam. At TLV2GO, we are always happy to show you any potential property before you book. Just speak to us to reserve a time and we’ll be happy to arrange a visit.
3.Avoid ‘Phantom’ Property Owners
If a property owner or management company that asks you to wire money first and promises to send keys in the mail may be trying to scam you. Be sure you check into who they are just as they probably want to know who you are (if they’re legitimate). Ask for their contact information, ratings from other guests and any professional references they may have. A simple website with beautiful images is no longer any guarantee that you’re actually getting what you’re paying for.
At TLV2GO, we offer a secure rental contract, 24/7 maintenance and troubleshooting services, high-end amenities and the top locations in Tel Aviv, Eilat and Jerusalem. For your next business trip, be sure to book with peace of mind. With over a decade of experience, we can share with you the recommendations from our other happy corporate clients and help you find the perfect rental for your needs – whether that’s a small studio or a spacious penthouse.
4.Verify your Contract Before you Sign
Many business apartments for rent don’t actually include even the most basic amenities. Yes, by this we mean forks. We’ve had numerous clients turn to us after an exasperating experience with a host who advertised a ‘fully furnished’ apartment that didn’t have a single pot in the kitchen. Fully furnished, serviced apartments mean different things to different hosts so be sure you check exactly what you’re getting before you sign any contracts. Another tip – make sure you explore the fine print and understand exactly what will happen if you need to cancel or make any changes. Often, business apartments for rent will have unfavorable conditions that either don’t allow cancellations at all or charge you a small fortune if they do. At TLV2GO, we understand that business travel often changes. That’s why we offer our business clients the most advantageous terms for both alterations and cancellations.
5.Go with your Gut
Chances are, if you have a bad feeling that a beautiful business apartment for rent looks too good to be true – especially for such a low price – you’re probably right. Take a look at the surrounding market on other websites and other locations. Get a feel for the prices in several places and then reconsider the amazing offer in front of you. Does it really make sense that a penthouse in the center of Tel Aviv would be so cheap? If it is, it’s probably a scam. At TLV2GO, we offer the best prices on the most luxurious business apartments for rent in the best locations. But don’t take our word for it. Have a look for yourself and contact us today for any questions or advice. Our experienced team is at your service, day and night.
