If you’re in the market for a short-term apartment rental, there are some helpful Web resources out there. But how can you make sure you’re getting a real deal and not a scam?

Classified sites like Sublet.com and Craigslist.org allow landlords and leasers to list their properties for free, which also make them a hotbed for scam artists.

If you’re not dealing with a reputable real-estate company or licensed broker, you’re taking a risk.

Try using a service that requires payment for listings, such as Westside Rentals in Southern California or Rentals.com nationwide.

Not matter what type of service you use, keep a paper trail of all your interactions with the person you’re renting from.

Do they send you emails from a number of different addresses?

Do they make frequent spelling or grammatical errors in their contracts?

Legitimate companies have professionals review their contracts before sending them out.

If there are errors or inconsistencies, run—don’t walk—away from the deal.

Many crooks juggle several scams at once and get lazy or confused about changing the details.

One easy way to test your renter is to ask for directions.

Scammers are sometimes unfamiliar with the area and will actually have no idea how to get there.

And as always, listen to your gut before handing over your credit card or signing on the dotted line.

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