After weeks of searching a new place to move to, you find a place online. You call the number and the property agent says he will meet you there. You're on your way and he calls you and tells you his car broke down and he won't be able to make it. "Don't worry, though. The landlord will be there to show you around."

The agent mentions that he can even negotiate a lower price than the landlord will give you, so come to him after, rather than signing a lease right away.

You get there and find several other people interested in renting the place. The landlord offers his price, but you still want to angle for a better deal so you call the agent back to negotiate. You work out a deal you're happy with and wait for him to confirm with the landlord. He calls you back shortly after and tells you the price is okay - all you have to do is wire him the money for the first two months and you're all set.

You rent a truck, pack up - but on moving day, you show up to find someone else moving in. It turns out, the agent isn't an agent at all; he just found the property online and reposted it with his own contact information. That’s how you called him in the first place. He sends several people at a time to generate a sense of urgency for the potential renters. Kiss whatever money you wired to him goodbye.

How to avoid: when there is a third party involved (i.e. the agent) always make sure everyone is aware of the situation. Tell the landlord you've been dealing with an agent and see if it's something he does regularly.