Bill Schultz, Realtor

04/26/2026

I just got off the phone with someone this just happened to. Please be careful and verify.

Real estate scams on Facebook Marketplace commonly involve fake rental listings using stolen photos of legitimate homes to lure renters with low prices. Scammers, posing as landlords, demand deposits via apps like Zelle, Venmo, or Chime before in-person viewings. Key warning signs include pressure to pay early, properties priced significantly below market, and refusal to show the property in person.

Common Scams and Tactics:
Rental "Ghost" Listings: Scammers steal photos from MLS or rental sites to create fake listings, sometimes charging for application fees or deposits.
Fake Landlords: They may claim to be out of the country or use a fake ID to create a sense of legitimacy.
Forced Remote Viewing: Scammers often refuse in-person tours, offering video tours of model units or claiming the house is unavailable to view until a deposit is paid.
Forced Payments: Scammers often demand payment for application fees or security deposits via apps like Chime, Venmo, or Zelle—methods which are difficult to reverse.
Pressure Tactics: Creating a sense of urgency to get a "good deal" to rush the victim into sending money.

How to Spot a Scam:
Too Good to Be True: If the price is remarkably low for the area, it is likely a scam.
Lack of In-Person Access: If you cannot view the property in person before paying, avoid the listing.
Generic or Stolen Pictures: Do a Google reverse image search on the listing photos.
Multiple Listings, Same Photos: Check if the same house appears multiple times in different areas.

How to Avoid Scams:
Do Not Pay Upfront: Never send money, security deposits, or app fees before seeing the property and signing a lease in person.
Use Reverse Image Search: Search the images on Google to see if they belong to a different, legitimate listing.
Verify Property Ownership: Use public records or a local property appraiser’s site to check who owns the home.
Avoid Unknown Payment Methods: Use secure, traceable payment methods.
Report Scam Listings: Report the listing to Facebook if you suspect it is fraudulent.

If you have already sent money, contact your bank or the money transfer service immediately.

04/17/2026

New lease available

https://www.griffithrealty.com/p/332-Garden-Lane-Fowlerville-Vlg-MI-48836/dmgid_186056100

04/17/2026

New on the Market

02/26/2026

The National Association of REALTORS®’ 2026 consumer ad campaign, More Than Opening Doors, launches Feb. 24 and gives consumers a playful behind-the-scenes look at all you to do bring buyers and sellers to the closing table.

11/11/2025

🏡 Curious about your home's hidden potential? Unlock the mystery of your biggest investment! Message me for a free, personalized Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). Let's chat about your home and discover its value in today's market. Knowledge is power, find out what your home is worth today!

11/06/2025

10/27/2025

Oak Pointe Condominium for lease…One Year. Move in ready! Ranch plan, end location with 2 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, den, great room and kitchen with all appliances. 2 car garage, attached. Fabulous view of the golf course from expansive deck. Lower level finishes include family room, full bathroom and office space with closet. NO SMOKING, NO PETS and credit score acceptable to landlord. 1 year lease. 1 1/2 month security deposit. Association fee is included in monthly rent.

Photos, maps, description of Property For Rent at 4562 Golf View Drive, Genoa Township, MI 48116, asking price of $2,800 / Monthly

10/24/2025

10/23/2025

If rates keep dropping, what’s the % that would make you pull the trigger: 5’s, low 6’s, or still waiting?

The average rate on 30-year fixed home loans declined to 6.19% for the week ending Oct. 23, down from 6.27% the week before, according to Freddie Mac. Rates averaged 6.54% during the same period in 2024.