Is it safe to rent a single house on Craigslist?

Renting a single house on Craigslist is safe as long as renters follow safety guidelines, according to Craigslist. Renters should wait before agreeing to background and credit checks until after they have met the landlord. They should put down money only after they have seen the property and signed agreements.

Renters should be aware of red flags such as bad grammar and spelling, a rent that is below market value, and the suggestion of using an online escrow service, says Craigslist. Common rental scams include being asked to send money without having seen the property and being asked for personal and financial information too early in the process.