Watch out for scammers!

When searching for a new rental property, it's crucial to recognize the signs of a potential scam. Lately, scammers have been hijacking rental listings, reducing the price, and posting these fraudulent ads online, particularly on Craigslist, while pretending to be the landlord. They make the price appealing, omit the address and contact details, and wait for someone to contact them through the site's messaging system.

Being aware of scam warning signs will reduce your risk of falling victim and potentially losing money. Scammers can be identified in several ways:

• Using numbers from out of state or Google Voice numbers. Scammers often use fake phone numbers. Google Voice numbers can be easily changed, and once you've realized you've been scammed, the scammer will switch their number, making it impossible for you to reach them.

• They won't be local, familiar with the property, or able to meet you there. They won't know many specific details about the property and may simply provide you with a code to access the property on your own. While legitimate companies use electronic lock boxes for convenient self-showing, these systems typically require you to register on a website and verify your identity before accessing the property. 

• They ask you to send, wire, or transfer money, saying things like “Ignore the Real Estate company information, we fired them and are renting it ourselves.” It's best to double-check with the real estate company before proceeding. Try calling them to inquire about the property and gather more information for confirmation.

Keep these points in mind, and you won't fall victim to a scammer! If Red Herron Property Management can be of service, call, text or email anytime!

Red Herron Property Management, LLC

407.900.0619

RedHerronPM.com