The Morongo Basin Sheriff’s Department has received several reports of residents who have been the victims of fraud when trying to rent a home. The victims respond to an online ad, and send off a deposit and rent—usually by wiring money—Western Union, Moneygrams, or other untraceable payments. Sometimes the “landlord” disappears with their money, never to be heard of again, or sometimes the residents move in, only to be evicted when the real owners show up and find them living in their home. Managing editor Tami Roleff offers the following tips to avoid being taken by this scam…
There’s a reason why the saying “If it looks too good to be true, it probably is” is true. Be aware of what homes are renting for in your area; landlords are not going to rent a home below market value. Real estate experts offer the following tips when renting a home. Don’t pay cash for your rental, or Western Union or Moneygrams; use a check or cashier’s check. Don’t rent sight unseen. Meet the landlord or property manager in person. Demand a written lease, and have it signed in your presence. The lease should identify the landlord or property manager with name, address, and phone number. Verify that this information is accurate. Be wary of landlords who don’t perform a background or credit check on you. To reduce your chances of being scammed, use licensed property managers or real estate agents. If you are the victim of a scam, notify the Sheriff’s Department.
