Scammers are constantly coming up with new ways to try and steal your hard-earned money. We have compiled a list of some of the scams used in the rental market.
Fake Ads.
Some will post fake ads that are just too good to believe. The rent is so low you can't pass it up or they entice you with all utilities included for a low rent. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Feel Sorry for Me.
They will reply with a message about how they lost their spouse and was selling the property. They decided to rent it since it hasn't sold, that also explains why the real estate for sale sign is in the front yard. Call the real estate company whose sign is in the yard to confirm the information.
Couldn't Rent It.
Others will copy the pictures and ad of properties for rent and tell their victim the management company could not rent it. They fired the management company and are renting it themselves. Call the management company and see if the story checks out.
Out of the Country, Payments.
Scammers will tell their victim they need to send “wire transfer,” “money order,” “Western Union,” “Prepaid Visa,” or “Moneygram,” because the owner is out of the country and can't accept a check. Be very cautious of these methods.
Fake Website.
Potential renters are directed to a fake website to collect their personal information. The site may look identical a legitimate site such as PayPal but it is really the scammers site collecting your data. Look for the padlock icon in front of the URL address.
