5 Things to Watch Out for When Searching for a Student Room on Facebook

One of the biggest risks when searching for housing on Facebook is falling victim to scams. Scammers often post fake listings with attractive prices and request a deposit before you’ve even seen the room. Always be cautious when a deal seems too good to be true! Make sure to visit the room in person or request a video tour before making any payments. Alternatively, you can check the photo’s for relevant clues such as:

• View from the window: most scams avoid having pictures with a view from the window;
• Electrical outlet: most scams re-use images from different countries with a different type of connector;

If a listing offers a spacious, fully furnished room in the city center at an unusually low price, be skeptical. Compare the price with similar rooms in the area to ensure it’s reasonable. Extremely cheap rent often indicates a scam, poor living conditions, or hidden costs that could surprise you later.

Before agreeing to anything, always ask about the rental terms. How long is the contract? Are utilities included? What’s the cancellation policy? Some landlords may try to impose unfair rules, such as excessive deposits or unclear contract terms. Make sure everything is clearly stated in writing before committing.

Also make sure to check the rental agreement thoroughly. For example: Contrary to some countries, a Dutch rental agreement never mentions a third signature from a lawyer, barrister or other “witness”. Only the signatures of the relevant parties to the contract should be present in the rental agreement;

Some scammers use fake profiles to lure in students. Check the landlord’s profile—does it look legitimate? Look for mutual friends, previous posts, and profile activity. If the account was created recently or has very few details, proceed with caution. Additionally, avoid landlords who pressure you to make a quick decision without giving you enough time to consider. Additionally, a professional landlord generally does not use a @gmail.com, @outlook.com, or other generic e-mail domain.

Scammers often ask for payments through non-traditional methods like Western Union, Bitcoin, or gift cards. Always use secure and traceable payment methods, such as a Dutch bank transfer.

Some rooms look great in pictures but turn out to be overcrowded or in poor condition. Before signing a contract, try to meet your future roommates and visit the house. Check if the facilities, such as the kitchen and bathroom, are in good condition and if the living situation meets your expectations.

• Always check the landlord and location before making any payments.
• Use trusted Facebook groups and verify the legitimacy of listings.
• Never share personal or financial details with strangers.
• If something feels off, trust your instincts and look for another option.

By staying vigilant and following these tips, you can increase your chances of finding a safe and comfortable student room in Groningen. Good luck with your search!