06/02/2026
🚨 Rental Scam Warning for Renters 🚨
If you're searching for a rental home on Facebook Marketplace or in local Facebook groups, please be careful. Rental scams are becoming increasingly common, and scammers are targeting people who are simply trying to find a place to live.
Here are a few red flags to watch for:
❌ The "landlord" asks for a deposit or application fee before you've viewed the property.
❌ The rent seems too good to be true for the area.
❌ They claim they're out of town and can't show the home.
❌ They pressure you to send money quickly through Cash App, Venmo, Zelle, gift cards, or wire transfers.
❌ They refuse to meet in person or verify their identity.
❌ The photos look professional, but they can't answer basic questions about the property.
Before sending any money:
✅ Verify who owns the property.
✅ Tour the home in person whenever possible.
✅ Ask for a written lease agreement.
✅ Be cautious of anyone rushing you to pay immediately.
✅ Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is.
Unfortunately, scammers often copy photos and information from legitimate listings and repost them as rentals they don't own. Once they collect deposits, they disappear, leaving renters without a home and without their money.
Please share this post to help protect friends and family who may be looking for a rental. A few extra minutes of verification could save someone from losing hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
