07/04/2026
🚨 RENTAL SCAM ALERT: Protect Yourself Before You Rent
With rental prices constantly changing, it's easy to get excited when you find a great deal online. However, if a listing seems too good to be true, it may be a scam.
As a Realtor®, I've seen rental fraud affect many unsuspecting renters, and unfortunately, it happens more often than people realize.
How the Scam Works
🏡 A home is legitimately listed for sale or for rent.
🔑 A scammer gains access to the property, often by obtaining a lockbox code during a showing.
📸 The scammer takes photos and creates fake rental listings on websites such as Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Nextdoor, and other online platforms.
💰 They collect deposits, first month's rent, and sometimes application fees from prospective tenants.
📝 A fake lease is provided, and then the scammer disappears.
🚪 On move-in day, the renter discovers the property was never available through the person who collected the money.
How to Protect Yourself
✅ Work with a Realtor® who can help verify that the property and listing are legitimate.
✅ Verify ownership by checking public property records and confirming the identity of the person showing the property.
✅ If a property is owned by an LLC or investment company, ask for proof that the individual is authorized to lease the property.
✅ Never send money, deposits, or application fees until ownership and authorization have been verified.
✅ Be cautious of listings with rental prices that seem significantly lower than market value.
Remember:
A few minutes of verification can save you thousands of dollars and a lot of stress.
If you're searching for a rental, I'd be happy to help you find a legitimate property and guide you through the process safely.
📞 Martha Quesada, Realtor®
🏠 Buy • Sell • Rent
🇪🇸 Se Habla Español
📱 305-303-1000
Your trusted resource for all your real estate needs.