​When I first started looking for a place to live abroad, I was so excited. Even before I knew I would actually move, I used to scroll through apartment listings in other countries just for fun. I loved imagining life in places like Spain or Portugal. But when the time came to seriously look for a place in Málaga, that excitement turned into a mix of nerves and confusion. Suddenly, I realized how tricky it could be to find something real and reliable.

I spent hours scrolling through Facebook groups and housing websites, hoping to find a place that was affordable, well-located, and nice to live in. This turned out to be much harder than expected. Luckily, I didn’t get scammed, but after hearing a few stories from friends who weren’t as lucky, I realized how easy it can be to make a mistake when you’re new to the process. So, if you’re planning to move abroad soon, don’t worry. I’ve gathered a few tips to help you avoid scams.

Don’t trust anything that looks too good to be true

If an apartment looks amazing, is in a central area, and costs way less than everything else, it’s probably a scam. I once found a “modern studio in Barcelona” for only €350 a month, fully furnished and including all bills. It looked perfect, but after a bit of research, I found the exact same photos on another website with a completely different address. Scammers often steal photos from real listings to trick people. So, whenever you find something that looks too good to be true, copy one of the images and do a quick reverse image search (lets you check where a photo appears online) on for example Google Images. It’s a simple step that can save you a lot of money and stress.

Always ask for a video call or virtual tour

One big mistake I made early on was trusting photos too much. They can easily be outdated or fake. Therefore, next time I’m searching for a place, I’ll make sure to ask for a video call so the landlord can show me the accommodation in real time. A genuine landlord or agency won’t hesitate to show you the room live. During the call, ask them to show different angles, the street view from the window, and even open some cupboards or doors. This helps confirm that the property actually exists and allows you to see if it truly matches the photos.

Never pay before you see a contract

This might sound obvious, but many people still pay deposits before signing anything. Especially when they’re in a hurry or worried about losing the place. Always make sure there’s a written contract before sending money. Read it carefully, check the landlord’s full name and contact details, and see if it matches public records or reviews online. If it’s a private landlord, ask for their ID or property ownership proof.

Begin your search on time

Again, this might sound obvious, but it’s one of the most common mistakes people make. It’s so easy to think, “I’ll do it later,” and before you know it, all the good (and affordable) options are gone. Starting your search early gives you the time to compare prices, research neighborhoods, and verify if listings are real. Without the pressure of having to make quick decisions. In popular destinations like Spain, Greece, and Portugal, the best student accommodations often get booked months in advance, especially in cities like Málaga, Lisbon, and Athens. If you wait too long, you might end up with overpriced or suspicious offers because scammers know that desperate students are more likely to take risks.

Trust your instincts

Finally, if something feels off, it probably is. When I was searching for accommodation in Spain, one “landlord” kept rushing me to decide and send money right away because “many people were interested.” That kind of pressure is a big red flag. Real landlords understand that you need time to think, especially if you’re still abroad.

Finding an accommodation abroad can be stressful. but it’s also part of the adventure. You’ll learn a lot along the way about different cultures, housing markets, and even your own instincts. Just remember take your time, double-check everything, and don’t let excitement cloud your judgment.