If you are thinking of renting a property in the Summerville/Charleston area, or really anywhere, please be aware of a scam that is being purpertrated on Craigs List.
The scam artist takes information about homes that are listed for sale and posts it on Craigs List as being for rent. They provide their own contact information and when someone calls about the "rental", the scammer gives an excuse of why the owner is out of town and all dealings must be handled remotely. They ask the prospective renter to fill out an application and send it along with first and last months rent. Once they receive the money, the scammer disappears and leaves the victim to find out that the property was never for rent in the first place and the scammer had no actual connection to the property.
If you are looking to rent be sure you are dealing with a reputable real estate firm, property management company or agent. This is easy enough to check with a few phone calls and/or internet search. If the person posting the property represents themselves to be the owner or someone assisting the owner, then you must proceed with caution.
Always be sure to visit and tour the home in person before sending any money. Asking for pictures is not enough because the scammer steals pictures and information off of whatever listing forum they found the property.
If you really must sign a lease before you make your move and cannot view properties in person (for example if you are moving to another state), contact a reputable real estate firm or property management company to assist you. It may eliminate some homes that are being offered for rent privately, but at least you can be sure that you will not be scammed out of your security deposit.
I personally know two fellow agents whose listings were the subject of this scam so this is no joke. Right now, it seems that these criminals are targeting Craigs List, but be aware when inquiring about rentals through the newspaper or other sites where anyone can post an advertisement.
The following link provides additional information about this story as well as where to report any suspected criminal activity.
http://www.popdecay.com/2009/07/real-estate-scam-uses-craigslist-to-lure-victims/
Kind Regards,
Maria Pettis, Realtor/e-PRO
Century 21 Properties Plus, Inc.
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