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Replies (3)
- S. Chris Webb, "PHX AZ RE BROKER"
- Contributions:411
That's a very good question. Initially find out who is offering it for rent. If the owner, you can verify if they are the owner in your county's tax records (county assessor web site.) If it is a property manager, look them up in your states department to see if they are licensed, if that is required to be a property manager in your state. If you are still in doubt, before signing any lease, ask for picture identification and ask the person if you may see some proof that they manage the property, such as a utility bill or rental property tax filing form with that address on it.
Good luck!
Good luck!
- RenTec
- Contributions:6
Generally, the real owner has a key to the property. Ask to be shown the property prior to providing any money. If they don't have a key to let you in, it's a good chance they don't own it and its a scam.
- S. Chris Webb, "PHX AZ RE BROKER"
- Contributions:411
RenTec, the problem with that is, if the property is on the MLS, thousands of people potentially have access to the key and can show the place. Some owners also stupidly give out the lockbox combo to potential tenants over the phone so they don't have to be bothered showing it. Then a copy of the key can be made... There are a heck of a lot of people who have actually viewed the property and have been scammed.
Another thing that also happens is the property that a scammer knows is vacant and easily accessed is falsely advertised as being for rent. The scammer meets the tenant at the property, asks for a cash deposit, then dissappears.
Another thing that also happens is the property that a scammer knows is vacant and easily accessed is falsely advertised as being for rent. The scammer meets the tenant at the property, asks for a cash deposit, then dissappears.
does anyone know how to check the authenticity of rentals?
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