BEWARE OF RENTAL SCAMS

Mar 07, 2023

Rental scams are becoming more and more prevalent. Learn how to recognize them and protect yourself. 

The old adage is correct. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. 
Rental scams targeting either the owner or the tenant are becoming increasingly common.

How does it work? Let's say someone looking to rent a home finds the perfect house, available immediately and VERY reasonably priced. The renter quickly sends in their security deposit and first month's rent to be sure they get this property at this great rate. The new tenants move in, just to have the owner knocking on their door asking why they're trespassing. The scammers who were posing as the owners of the home, have thousands of dollars of the renter's money, and the renters have moved into a home that they have no claim to. What a nightmare for everyone involved.
Here are some tips to keep potential renters and owners safe from this kind of situation: 

OWNERS

  • Run a background check on potential renters.
  • Request references and follow up with them.
  • Meet the potential renters in person, at the house.
  • Do an online search of potential renters' names to check for any suspicious results.
  • Don't accept a check for more than it should be written out for. They may ask for a refund for the overage amount, but their check could be fake.


POTENTIAL RENTERS

  • Don't sign a lease or pay anything before seeing the property in person.
  • Be aware of properties priced much lower than similar properties.
  • Don't be pressured into signing anything before you are ready.
  • Beware of ads with bad grammar. Someone serious about renting their home will probably take the time to create a well written ad.
  • Research the landlord or Property Management company.




Front Porch Rentals is a Property Management Company located in Fuquay-Varina and servicing Fuquay-Varina, Willow Spring, Holly Springs, Apex, Cary, Raleigh and surrounding areas in Wake County, North Carolina.

If you would like to learn more about the benefits of hiring a Property Management company, visit our website: www.frontporchrentalsnc.com


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