In recent weeks, there has been a growing concern in Putnam County regarding rental scams targeting potential tenants. As highlighted in a recent social media post on the S&T Property Management Facebook page, as well as the Putnam County Sheriffs Office, scammers are falsely listing properties for rent or sale, deceiving unsuspecting individuals into sending money before ever seeing the property in person. This alarming trend is a reminder to always stay vigilant and verify property listings before making any financial commitments.
How the Scam Works
Scammers typically find legitimate properties that are for sale or rent and post fake listings using fraudulent information. They then communicate with potential renters, setting up viewing dates and requesting payments—often through untraceable digital payment platforms like Venmo, PayPal, Zelle, Cash App, or Apple Pay, etc. Once the money is sent, the scammer disappears, leaving victims without a place to live and their funds unrecoverable.
Warning Signs of a Rental Scam
If you’re in the market for a rental property, keep an eye out for these red flags:
Requests for Payment Before Viewing – A legitimate landlord or property manager will never ask for money before allowing you to see the property.
Unusual Payment Methods – Be wary if someone insists on digital payments rather than traditional forms like checks or verified bank transactions.
Lack of Direct Contact with the Owner or Agent – Always ensure you are speaking with the rightful property owner or a licensed agent. If the person avoids in-person meetings or phone calls, it may be a scam.
Too Good to Be True Offers – If the rent is significantly lower than market rates, it’s a major red flag.
High-Pressure Tactics – Scammers often create urgency, claiming that many people are interested and urging you to pay immediately.
How to Protect Yourself
Verify the Listing – Cross-check rental listings on official real estate websites or contact the agent directly through their verified business contact information.
Visit the Property in Person – Never send money before physically touring the property and confirming the legitimacy of the rental.
Check Public Records – Property ownership information is often available through county records. Confirm that the person listing the property has the authority to do so.
Report Suspicious Listings – If you encounter a fraudulent rental listing, report it to local law enforcement and real estate professionals to prevent others from falling victim.
Final Thoughts
Rental scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, but with awareness and due diligence, you can protect yourself from falling victim. Always trust your instincts—if something feels off about a listing, take the time to investigate further before making any commitments. By staying informed and cautious, you can ensure a safe and secure rental experience.
For more updates on real estate safety and best practices, stay tuned and follow trusted local professionals like myself for guidance.
— See the noted Facebook posts below.
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