There is a growing list of fraudulent rental listings on Craigslist. A few months ago, I received a phone call from a tenant looking to lease my property that was for sale. This particular property was not listed for rent, at least not by the owner, myself or any other Realtor. I found the property listed for rent on Craigslist by a scammer. The rental price was for $1,200 when it could’ve realistically rented for $2,500 a month. I notified Craigslist of the scam and they immediately removed it.
Just last week, I received an e-mail from a consumer saying that she had paid $500 for a security deposit and $700 for a first month’s rent. When the keys to the property never arrived, she investigated a bit further to find out our office had the property listed for sale. Confused, she called us and we informed her that she was a victim of a Craigslist scam. Once the fraudster has your money, there is generally very little you can do. You will need to contact your local FBI office or state attorney general.
To avoid this completely, a consumer must take the following action before entertaining a lease listed online:
· The first clue of a scam is a low monthly rental price. Potential tenants get excited about the possibility of renting something so nice at a low rent price and become afraid they may lose the deal to another tenant. If the deal is too good to be true, it probably is!
· Confirm all the facts on the rental listing by driving by the property. Google the address to see if it’s also for sale, contact the listing agent for details. Always verify the actual home owner by checking the county records which are available online.
· Lastly, never send money or credit card information with-out pre-viewing the property!
Taking these steps will help ensure you are dealing with a real Landlord. If you have any questions or need help finding a rental home, please call or e-mail us!
Dan Smith
Keller Williams Real Estate
Direct: 215-723-3851
Office: 215-631-1900
Email: DanielSmith@kw.com
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