11/09/2023
These are some great tips. With technology growing everyday it is important to do your due diligence on everything. Stay safe out there!
We continue to see Rental Scams posted on community pages and listed on Facebook Marketplace. We don't want to see anyone taken advantage of. Here are some tips we hope will help:
1. Rent price is very low. Scammers may intentionally list a place for rent for a low/below market price to increase interest and make people think they're getting a good deal. Some even say all utilities are included in the cheap rent. If they have pictures, they're stolen and often photoshop a 'for rent' sign.
2. Application fees. Yes, reputable businesses and even some local landlords may charge application fees. However, you can verify this by visiting their office/place of business or meeting them in person. Scammers will ask for application fees upfront. (At Lake White Village, we don't charge an application fee.)
3. They won't meet in-person, at all. Ask to view the property and ask questions about it. (Lake White Village does require an application before scheduling a showing as we get nearly 100 people applying & cannot show a property to everybody, but our application is free).
4. They want you to move in immediately, without viewing the property. Even if you are in desperate need of a place, be sure to verify the Landlord, address, and view the property. Scammers intend to take advantage of those in need.
5. They ask for Rent and Security deposit before meeting and before a lease is signed. (At Lake White Village, we require a Security deposit to hold a property but always provide a receipt & always meet & show the property first. Rent is due at lease signing.)
6. They explicitly say no background check. Again, scammers are preying on people in need. While we believe in giving people a chance, we also must keep the safety of our existing tenants in mind & always complete background checks.
We hope this is helpful in your rental search 🏡🏠🏘