No, this situation has multiple red flags and is likely a rental scam. Legitimate landlords do not rely on a friend to show the property or ask for payment only after you get keys, as that bypasses standard tenant protections. The combination of a remote owner, vague mortgage story, and promise of a "friend" showing the place is a classic scam pattern in Utrecht's competitive housing market.
Here is why this should raise serious concerns. Scammers often create fake Facebook and LinkedIn profiles to appear credible. They use stories about mortgages or being abroad to explain why they cannot meet in person. The phrase "we're not gonna pay anything before we get the keys" is a tactic to build false trust, but the real risk is that after you pay a deposit or first month's rent, the keys never arrive and the "friend" is fake. In legitimate rentals, you always view the property in person or via a verified video call with the landlord or agency, and you sign a formal contract before any money changes hands. Paying only after receiving keys is unusual because standard practice in the Netherlands requires a deposit upfront, but that deposit should be held in a third-party escrow account or covered by a rental guarantee.
To protect yourself, take these concrete steps. First, verify the property exists by checking public records like the Kadaster (land registry) for the address and owner. Second, insist on a video call with the actual landlord, not a friend, and ask for a copy of their ID and proof of ownership. Third, never transfer money via bank transfer or payment apps without a signed contract and a clear cancellation policy. Fourth, search for the exact text of their message on scam warning sites like Fraudehelpdesk or Facebook groups for expats in Utrecht. Finally, if something feels off, trust your gut and walk away. Legitimate rentals in Utrecht are scarce, but scammers prey on that urgency.
Remember, a genuine landlord will prioritize your security and transparency. If they push for speed or avoid direct contact, it is almost certainly a scam. Use reputable rental platforms like Pararius, Funda, or a registered makelaar to find verified listings instead.