05/12/2026
It has been brought to our attention that there have been scammers attempting to rent out our property listings.
Western View Real Estate does not manage any rental properties. All properties listed for sale on our website and affiliated advertising sites are for sale only.
How to Spot and Handle Scammers
Verify Ownership:
Search the property address on county/city tax assessor websites to compare the owner's name with the person listing it.
Insist on an In-Person Tour:
If the "landlord" claims they cannot show the property because they are out of town, away on business, or currently occupying it, it is likely a scam.
Do a Reverse Image Search:
Use Google Reverse Image Search on the listing photos to see if they appear elsewhere with different contact details.
Avoid Upfront Payments:
Never pay an application fee, deposit, or first month’s rent before seeing the property and signing a lease. Never use non-refundable, untraceable methods like Cash App, Venmo, wire transfers, or gift cards.
Watch for High-Pressure Tactics:
Scammers often rush you to pay immediately to "secure" a deal, often offering low rent or great amenities to lure victims.
Report the Listing:
Use the "Report Listing" feature on Facebook Marketplace, and report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
If You Have Been Scammed
Report to Local Police:
File a report to help build a case.
Contact Your Bank:
Immediately contact your financial institution to try and stop the payment, though funds sent via apps are rarely recovered.
Warn Others:
Post in local community groups to alert others to the specific, fraudulent listing.
